Shiv Nadar: The Visionary Entrepreneur Behind India's IT Success

Success Story:One name stands out whenever India’s IT success stories are told: Shiv Nadar. What began in a modest garage in 1976 went on to become Hindustan Computers Limited (HCL), one of India’s leading global IT companies. Today, Shiv Nadar is not only a celebrated entrepreneur but also one of the country’s most generous philanthropists, donating nearly Rs 7.4 crore every day. Shiv Nadar was born on July 14, 1945, in the Tiruchirappalli district of Tamil Nadu. After completing his engineering education, he joined the DCM Group. During his time there, discussions with colleagues about the future of computers and electronics in India sparked a bold idea, that is, to start something of their own. In 1976, Shiv Nadar and a small group of engineers founded HCL from a garage in Delhi. Initially, the company focused on computer hardware and electronic products, with a clear aim: to bring computer technology to India and create employment opportunities for young professionals. The early years were far from easy. HCL faced financial constraints, technical hurdles, and intense market competition. However, Shiv Nadar’s long-term vision and commitment to innovation kept the company moving forward. He firmly believed that technology should simplify lives and drive progress for everyone. During the 1980s and 1990s, HCL diversified from hardware manufacturing into software development and IT services. The company steadily expanded beyond India, establishing operations across the US, Europe, and Asia. Today, HCL Technologies operates in nearly 60 countries and employs more than 2,22,000 people. It is a major player in areas such as cloud computing, cyber security, digital transformation, and enterprise software solutions. After leading HCL for over four decades, Shiv Nadar stepped down as chairman in 2020. He appointed his daughter, Roshni Nadar Malhotra, as the new chairman, making her the first woman to hold the position in the company’s history. Shiv Nadar now serves as Chairman Emeritus and Strategic Advisor. According to theBloomberg Billionaires Index, Shiv Nadar’s net worth stands at $38.2 billion (approx. Rs 3.17 lakh crore), placing him among the world’s richest individuals at 54th position globally. As of now, HCL’s market capitalisation is Rs 4,49,369 crore. Shiv Nadar’s legacy extends far beyond business. Through the Shiv Nadar Foundation, he has made significant contributions to education by establishing schools and universities across India. Swipe Left For Next Video As per the ‘EdelGive-Hurun Philanthropy List 2025’, Shiv Nadar and his family topped the list of India’s biggest philanthropists for the fourth time in five years. In the past year alone, the family donated Rs 2,708 crore, averaging Rs 7.4 crore every day. In recognition of his contribution to the IT sector and his vision for empowering India’s youth, Shiv Nadar was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2008. Today, HCL symbolises India’s technological strength on the global stage.