When we need inspiration and motivation to start a unique journey, we may turn to the business tycoons in the world. Successful entrepreneurs are those who have changed the way people think. Business leaders who have managed to reach the pinnacle of success have one thing in common. By implementing out-of-the-box ideas, these tycoons make an impact on the industry. For these business moguls, the road to success was never smooth, nor were they born with a silver spoon. The dedication of these leaders created opportunities and paved the way for new endeavors in their business journey. Here are the success stories of five business tycoons to celebrate who have made proud all over the world.
Dr. R A. Mashelkar - The First Scientist to Receive JRD Tata Corporate Leadership Award
Dr. Raghunath Anant Mashelkar, a renowned scientist, spearheaded the legal battle against US patents for turmeric, neem, and basmati rice, earning him the title ‘The warrior of Haldighati.’ Serving as the Director-General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), which comprises thirty-eight laboratories and a workforce of about 20,000, Dr. Raghunath has made significant contributions that have served as a source of inspiration for millions of Indians. His efforts to revamp CSIR into a user-focused, performance-driven, and accountable organization are considered one of his most substantial contributions to the field of Indian Science & Technology.
Dr. Raghunath has been the recipient of numerous awards and honors throughout his career. He holds the distinction of being only the third Indian engineer to be elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS), UK, and also the first scientist to receive the JRD Tata Corporate Leadership Award. His dedication to advocating for the underprivileged around the world and his efforts to improve the lives of people in developing nations have earned him recognition and respect on a global scale. In addition to his scientific contributions, he has also utilized his business expertise in serving as a member of the Board of Directors for several companies, including Reliance Industries and Tata Motors. Dr. Raghunath has received the awards Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, as well as Padma Vibhushan.
Ratan Naval Tata – The Strategic Businessman
Ratan Tata, a recipient of India’s prestigious civilian awards Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, is widely recognized on the global stage. Coming from a family of industrialists and philanthropists, Ratan Tata ascended to the position of Chairman of the Mumbai-based conglomerate TATA group in 1991 and served briefly in 2016. His determination and resilience were instrumental in expanding the TATA group's presence globally. Under his influential leadership, the TATA group made significant international acquisitions and purchases, including London-based Tetley Tea, South Korea’s Daewoo Motors, Anglo-Dutch steel manufacturer Corus Group, and UK-based Jaguar and Land Rover.
He realized his vision of creating India’s first 'People’s Car' – Tata Nano, priced at just one lakh rupees! This achievement was unparalleled and showcased his foresight in providing a practical and affordable mode of transport for the Indian middle-class family. Ratan Tata also holds the position of Chairman of Tata Trusts, one of India's oldest foundations, which operates in 170 districts across 17 states and collaborates with 450 organizations for various charitable causes.
Azim H. Premji- The Patron
Azim Premji, an Indian tech magnate, is renowned for his philanthropy and investments and serves as the Chairman of Wipro Limited. Wipro, operating in approximately 58 countries, has been a trailblazer in spearheading environmental initiatives, propelling the company to become a global leader in sustainability. Over the past four decades, Azim Premji has been the driving force behind Wipro's diversification and growth. His relentless pursuit of excellence in business operations has positioned Wipro as the first software company to achieve an SEI Level 5 certification. Azim Premji defied the odds and transformed Wipro into an IT powerhouse, establishing a strong presence in foreign markets. He is widely recognized across the global business landscape as an ethical entrepreneur and a role model for numerous Indian firms.
Dilip Shanghvi - Self-Made Billionaire in Asia
Dilip Shantilal Shanghvi has established himself as a prominent figure in the Indian healthcare industry despite his father's occupation as a wholesale drug distributor. He is the founder of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., India's largest drug-making company, and is widely regarded as one of the wealthiest individuals in the country and a self-made billionaire in Asia.
Sun Pharma experienced significant growth under his leadership, expanding through the acquisition of various global firms. His remarkable ascent has been truly captivating to witness.
Colleagues describe his working style as 'consultative' and 'democratic,' enabling him to generate innovative ideas that have become defining moments in his career. His keen business sense has propelled the company to become a dominant player in the Indian market. His personal story serves as a great source of inspiration for many. As a self-made individual, he was honored with the Padma Shri in 2016. In addition to his involvement in the pharmaceutical industry, he has a strong interest in renewable energies. Alongside his wife, Vibha D. Shanghvi, Dilip Shanghvi actively supports numerous charitable organizations, and they make substantial donations to such causes annually.
N R Narayana Murthy - The Sparkling Solitaire of IT
Nagavara Ramarao Narayana Murthy, the renowned co-founder and former Chairman of Infosys, has played a pivotal role in shaping the global presence of Indian software professionals. He was honored as the 'Father of Indian IT' by Times magazine for his impact on outsourcing and was recognized as one of the top 12 entrepreneurs of our era by Fortune magazine. With accolades such as the Padma Vibhushan and Padma Shri, Narayana Murthy is credited with conceptualizing and implementing the Global Delivery Model, which has laid the groundwork for IT services outsourcing from India.
In India, Narayana Murthy is an esteemed figure, admired for his ethical standards, modest lifestyle, and visionary leadership, which have significantly influenced the business landscape in terms of innovation and entrepreneurship. He is involved as a trustee in organizations like the Murty Foundation, Murty Trust, and the Infosys Science Foundation. Despite his astute business sense, he remains committed to addressing prevalent social upliftment issues in the country. Throughout his life, Narayana Murthy has upheld and imparted valuable family principles with unwavering honesty.