Top 10 Richest People in India
India, the world’s fifth-largest economy, is home to some of the richest individuals who have amassed immense wealth through innovation, hard work, and strategic investments. These billionaires play a significant role in shaping the nation’s economy and inspiring millions. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 richest people in India, their net worth, and the stories behind their success.
1. Mukesh Ambani
- Net Worth: $92 billion (as of 2025)
- Industry: Oil, Petrochemicals, Telecommunications, Retail
Story: Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), has consistently topped the list of India’s richest individuals. Under his leadership, Reliance has diversified from oil and petrochemicals to retail and telecommunications. Jio, Reliance’s telecom arm, revolutionized India’s digital landscape with affordable data and widespread 4G connectivity. Mukesh’s ability to anticipate market trends and make bold investments has cemented his legacy as a visionary leader.
2. Gautam Adani
- Net Worth: $68 billion
- Industry: Infrastructure, Ports, Energy
Story: Gautam Adani, founder and chairman of the Adani Group, has built a business empire spanning ports, power generation, and renewable energy. Starting as a commodity trader, Adani expanded into infrastructure, turning Mundra Port into India’s largest commercial port. His ventures into green energy demonstrate his commitment to sustainable growth, making him a significant player in India’s economic development.
3. Shiv Nadar
- Net Worth: $30 billion
- Industry: Information Technology (IT)
Story: Shiv Nadar, the founder of HCL Technologies, is a pioneer of India’s IT revolution. HCL started as a hardware company but pivoted to IT services, growing into one of the largest tech firms globally. Shiv Nadar is also a notable philanthropist, dedicating substantial resources to education through the Shiv Nadar Foundation, which runs schools and universities across India.
4. Cyrus Poonawalla
- Net Worth: $28 billion
- Industry: Pharmaceuticals (Vaccines)
Story: Cyrus Poonawalla, known as the “Vaccine King of India,” is the founder of the Serum Institute of India, the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer. His company played a pivotal role in producing vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, saving millions of lives. Poonawalla’s dedication to affordable healthcare has left an indelible mark on global health.
5. Radhakishan Damani
- Net Worth: $26 billion
- Industry: Retail, Investments
Story: Radhakishan Damani, founder of DMart, transformed the Indian retail sector with his no-frills supermarket chain offering quality products at competitive prices. Known for his simple lifestyle, Damani’s investment acumen and customer-centric approach have propelled him into the billionaire’s club. Before entering retail, he was a successful stock market investor.
6. Lakshmi Mittal
- Net Worth: $24 billion
- Industry: Steel
Story: Lakshmi Mittal, the chairman of ArcelorMittal, heads the world’s largest steel-producing company. Born in Rajasthan, Mittal’s journey began with a small family business. His strategic acquisitions and focus on efficiency turned ArcelorMittal into a global powerhouse. Despite challenges in the steel industry, Mittal’s resilience has ensured his company’s dominance.
7. Savitri Jindal & Family
- Net Worth: $22 billion
- Industry: Steel, Power, Infrastructure
Story: Savitri Jindal, the matriarch of the Jindal Group, oversees a conglomerate involved in steel, power, and infrastructure. After her husband’s passing, she took charge and has upheld the family’s legacy. The Jindal Group is a significant contributor to India’s industrial growth, and Savitri’s leadership has been instrumental in its success.
8. Dilip Shanghvi
- Net Worth: $20 billion
- Industry: Pharmaceuticals
Story: Dilip Shanghvi, the founder of Sun Pharmaceuticals, turned a small-scale drug manufacturing unit into India’s largest pharmaceutical company. Known for his low-profile demeanor, Shanghvi’s strategic acquisitions and focus on niche segments have driven Sun Pharma’s growth in global markets. His journey reflects determination and strategic foresight.
9. Kumar Mangalam Birla
- Net Worth: $18 billion
- Industry: Diversified (Cement, Telecom, Financial Services)
Story: Kumar Mangalam Birla, chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, has expanded the family’s business empire into multiple sectors, including cement, telecom, and financial services. Under his leadership, the group has achieved global recognition. Birla’s ability to adapt to changing market dynamics has been key to the conglomerate’s sustained growth.
10. Uday Kotak
- Net Worth: $16 billion
- Industry: Banking, Finance
Story: Uday Kotak, the founder of Kotak Mahindra Bank, started his career with a small finance company. Over the years, he built Kotak Mahindra Bank into one of India’s leading private sector banks. Known for his sharp financial insights, Kotak’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a banking tycoon is truly inspiring.
Conclusion
The stories of India’s richest individuals highlight the power of ambition, innovation, and perseverance. These billionaires have not only created immense wealth but have also contributed significantly to the nation’s progress. Whether through technological advancements, industrial growth, or philanthropy, their legacies inspire millions to dream big and work hard.
From Mukesh Ambani’s dominance in telecommunications to Uday Kotak’s transformative impact on banking, these leaders exemplify success in diverse industries. Their journeys remind us that with vision and determination, one can achieve extraordinary feats.