Nita Ambani, often recognized as the wife of Mukesh Ambani, India’s wealthiest individual with a net worth exceeding $116.1 billion, has forged her path as a prominent figure in business and philanthropy. Despite her association with the Ambani family’s vast empire, Nita’s professional accomplishments stand independently. From chairing the Reliance Foundation to owning the IPL team Mumbai Indians and establishing the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai, her contributions have left an indelible mark in various domains.
But before her life as an Ambani, Nita hailed from a middle-class Gujarati family in Mumbai and started her professional journey as a humble school teacher.
Nita Ambani’s Early Days as a Teacher
Before her marriage to Mukesh Ambani, Nita’s career began as a school teacher, earning a modest salary of Rs 800 per month at Sunflower Nursery. During an appearance on Rendezvous with Simi Garewal, Nita reminisced about her teaching days, highlighting the satisfaction it brought her despite the meager income. Mukesh humorously remarked that her entire salary funded their dinners, reflecting on their early days together.
Marriage and Career Evolution
After a whirlwind courtship of three weeks, Nita and Mukesh tied the knot in 1985. Even after her marriage to the Ambani family, Nita continued to work as a teacher for several years, a condition she had set before marrying the Reliance Chairman. Despite her familial responsibilities, Nita remained dedicated to her professional growth. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce from Narsee Monjee College of Commerce and Economics.
Nita’s Role at Reliance Industries
In 2014, Nita Ambani joined the Board of Directors at Reliance Industries. During her tenure, she made significant contributions to the company’s governance and strategy. According to Reliance Industries’ Annual Report 2022-2023, Nita received a sitting fee of Rs 6 lakh and a profit-based commission of Rs 2 crore. However, in August 2023, she stepped down from her position following the induction of her children, Isha, Akash, and Anant Ambani, to the board.
Looking Ahead
While relinquishing her formal directorial role, Nita remains a permanent invitee to Reliance’s board meetings, a testament to her continued influence and expertise within the organization. Despite her transition, Nita Ambani’s legacy as a pioneering woman in business and philanthropy continues to inspire generations, embodying the spirit of resilience, dedication, and leadership.
