Presenting our now annual list of the most influential seniors in India. Compiled by the Seniors Today Team
Ever since Seniors Today launched in July 2019, we have been a lot more than just self-help content and nostalgia. We are a monthly e-magazine, a buzzy website with many other digitally-led and live in-person properties, and now a robust app with a plethora of engagements are just part of our offerings. Over the last five-and-a-half years, we have painstakingly achieved the status of being ranked India’s #1 Destination for Senior Citizens.
Our now-annual listing of 50 Most Influential Seniors has become a reference point for society on the seniors in our country, who could and do make a difference. Yes, there are many repeats, as most of our A-listers have proved that they’ve earned their ranking for yet another year, however, we do have some new entrants. Some because they’ve turned 60, and some others because we felt that in our pool of people we consider, they have emerged a lot more influential. Some from our previous lists no longer have a presence, but that number is very small. Also, some have sadly moved on to a better place.
It may be noted that we have considered only those who are 60 years of age or above on January 1, 2025. And, yes, as usual we did not consider politicians and those in government.
1 Mukesh Ambani, 67, Industrialist
We kick off 2025 with the achievements and milestones as #OneRelianceFamily led by Mukesh Ambani tops all the charts and our most influential list, yet again. Ambani was honoured as the Number 1 CEO in India and Number 2 globally in the Brand Guardianship Index 2024.
So what’s new, you ask?
As we’ve said before, it’s not the rich list that concerns us as much as him being the most influential Indian. Ambani continues to be numero uno, driving his conglomerate to even more significant moves and leveraging in leaps and bounds at a global level.
In 2024, Jio was named India’s ‘Strongest Brands’ and ranked among the World’s 25 Strongest Brands, and Reliance Industries was recognised as one of the World’s Most Valuable Brands and was named India’s Most Valuable Company.
“Rise of a New India is an absolute certainty,” he was quoted as saying at his corporate’s AGM in August last year. We agree, and that he is the force behind driving this level up, is indisputable.
2 Gautam Adani, 63, Industrialist
Storms of 2024 Augmented Our Spirit: Gautam Adani’s New Year Message summed up his year in a few succinct words.
Reflecting on the past year, Gautam Adani said that 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary, emphasising “the journey to success is rarely linear”.
“At our core, we are fearless fighters, and it is through these battles that we continue to evolve and excel,” he said, adding: ““Even though the group’s financial position has never been more robust, his focus was not on numbers but on the foundation laid out for the future. Moments of transformation do not wait for us. They demand we rise to them with vision, courage and the will to act.”
Powerful words spoken from a person whose influence is spreading like wildfire.
- Laxmi Niwas Mittal, 74, Businessman
Mittal has an illustrious career of turning sick steel companies into profitable ventures.
Having built himself from the ground of Sadulpur, near the Haryana- Rajasthan border where he was born, there’s only way he has moved ever since: up.
Mittal’s reputation as a master dealmaker and gamechanger was solidified when in 2004, he orchestrated the landmark merger of Ispat International with LNM Holdings and the US-based International Steel Group, forming the world’s largest Ísteelmaker, Mittal Steel Company.
This big achievement notwithstanding, in 2006, the unthinkable happened. Arcelor, a European titan, agreed to a merger with Mittal Steel. In this way, ArcelorMittal was born, ruling over 10% of global production.
We acknowledge the excellent articulation in this summary of Mittal from Finology.in: In the hands of Lakshmi Mittal, cold, hard steel became a molten tapestry woven with ambition, risk, and raw brilliance.
With an empire worth ₹1.2 lakh crores, Lakshmi Mittal not only built something for himself but also contributed to reshaping an industry, one furnace at a time.
4 Natrajan Chandrashekaran, 61, Chairman, Tata Sons
In 2024, Natarajan Chandrasekaran, the chairman of Tata Sons, led the Tata Group to several achievements.
From semiconductors and EVs to green energy, Chandrasekaran is ensuring that the conglomerate looks to establish itself in new areas.
The ability to get into so many newer areas is backed by the robust performance of the company under his astute leadership. Between financial years 2019 and 2024, the combined profit of listed Tata companies surged by 351% from Rs 18,976 crore to Rs 85,510 crore.
The Tata Group has expanded into new businesses, including semiconductors, electronics manufacturing, mobile technology, and battery giga-factories.
Chandrasekaran says: “The world needs resilience and India can take the lead.” That he exemplifies his words with vision, resilience, and remarkable leadership are his formidable high points. His journey from a young engineer to the Chairman of Tata Sons, one of India’s largest and most prestigious conglomerates, is an inspiring story of dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment.
Chandrasekaran gives credit for his success to his mother who instilled hard work values in him as a foundation for his three-decade-long career.
Known in the inner circles as ‘The Transformer of Tata Sons’, he wears his accolades with great humility. The life mantra of the Tata chairman includes simple living, healthy eating and enjoying outdoor activities with wife Lalitha.
5 Noel Tata, 68, Industrialist
Noel Tata was embraced as one of the board members of the Sir Ratan Tata Trust in February 2019, and soon after the demise of his brother, on October 11, 2024, he was appointed Chairman of the Tata Trust, which holds a stake of 66% in Tata Sons, the parent company.
A quiet and low-profile persona, Tata’s first step in the group was at Tata International, the global trading division of Tata Group, and eventually, he became its Managing Director in 2010. Under his able leadership, Tata International diversified to multiple segments like engineering, leather, and metal, creating a global presence.
Unbeknownst to many, Noel Tata has been the brain behind strengthening the company’s international footprint, especially in Africa and Southeast Asia.
He became the Managing Director of Trent, Tata Group’s retail arm, started by Noel’s mother, Simone Tata. Trent operates retail chains like Westside, Star Bazaar and Zudio. Under his stewardship, Trent saw substantial growth, with its shares skyrocketing over 6000%.
Seeing his leadership qualities, Noel was appointed as the Director of Titan Industries and Voltas. In 2018, he was raised to the rank of Vice Chairman for Titan Industries, and in March 2022, he became Vice Chairman of Tata Steel.
Balancing his professional responsibilities with his personal life, Noel has managed to maintain a quiet yet resilient presence both in the business and family spheres.
Said his New Year’s Instagram post: “2024 has been a year of progress and purpose for Tata Trusts, as we continue to work across education, healthcare, WaSH, livelihoods and more, to create meaningful change. This year, we also bid farewell to our Chairman, Ratan N Tata, whose vision helped us shape the path we walk today. His dedication to improving lives and fostering resilience remains a cornerstone of our efforts. As we reflect on the year, we’re grateful for the communities, partners, and individuals who inspire us to keep building a better future—one programme at a time.”
He’s the one to watch in 2025, we would say.
6 Azim Premji, 79, Industrialist, Philanthropist
“The three ordinary things that we often don’t pay enough attention to, but which I believe are the drivers of all success, are hard work, perseverance, and basic honesty.” Words of wisdom from Azim Premji.
Premji is the quintessential philanthropic pioneer of IT and remains among the world’s most endearing and generous billionaires.
That he moves up the global list of billionaires is of little consequence to a man who has maintained a low-key presence, choosing to focus on what matters to him.
As the first Indian who signed up for The Giving Pledge, he believes in creating a better world for millions of people. The Azim Premji Foundation has helped morph his vision into a welcome reality for innumerable people.
Though not as active in day-to-day business in recent years, Premji exemplifies the power of purposeful leadership, inspiring countless individuals to make a difference with compassion and responsibility.
7 Samir Jain, 70, Media Baron
The Times of India’s success is owed largely due to the unorthodox philosophy of Samir Jain. An out-of-the-box thinker, he has handled the paper more like an advertising mogul and slipped in a few sweet deals to ensure further success and stability at a time when print is walking a tightrope.
Though print publications are perched at the far edge of a cliff, the group has managed to hold on to their prestige, whilst embracing digital space full on.
After an amicable division with brother Vineet, Jain is the force behind the huge influence the group and its various platforms wield over state affairs whilst catering to a loyal audience. In order to stay relevant to the new generations of digitally-first citizens, Jain is now said to be dreaming up ways to steer ahead of the times.
8 Kiran & Shiv Nadar, 74 & 79, Art Dealer, Philanthropist, Industrialist
The HCL Group was crowned as one of India’s Best Brands 2024 at the ET Now Best Brand Conclave. But that, as those who have followed the organisation, is no news.
HCL Technologies, which employs 211,000 people in 52 countries worldwide, hires high school grads and trains them on the job.
Indian IT pioneer Shiv Nadar co-founded HCL in a garage in 1976 to make calculators and microprocessors with five friends.
Today, HCL Technologies is among India’s largest software services providers. Nadar’s net worth is to the tune of $37 billion.
Kiran Nadar is one of the most influential names in the art world and is a trustee of the Shiv Nadar Foundation and the founder of the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art. She was awarded the Padma Shri in 2024 and also won a bronze medal representing India in the 2018 Asian Games in the Bridge Mixed team event.
The Nadars are well known for their philanthropy and investments in the field of education.
9 Nita Ambani, 61, Sports, Arts
“Her visionary work across education, sports, culture, and philanthropy has redefined India’s presence on the global stage,” read a post by daughter Isha after her mother Nita Ambani received an award.
Ambani’s efforts in the fields of arts, sports and education have been nothing short of inspiring and her narrative continues to be superlative. The lady wears many hats, successfully, easily and in a true sense— owns them all!
Nita Ambani says this century belongs to India and its women. Well said, and clearly there’s no stopping her.
10 Radhakishan Damani, 70, Businessman
That he topped the Hurun India’s Top 200 Self-Made Entrepreneurs of the Millennia for the second year in a row was no surprise. His enterprise saw a valuation of Rs 3.4 lakh crore, a 44% increase from the previous year.
This notwithstanding, Forbes’ list of India’s 100 richest tycoons ranked
Damani and his family sixth on the list with a net worth of $31.5 billion.
The list recognises the founders of the most valuable companies created since the turn of the century, based on the enterprise value of their businesses.
Damani’s proactive leadership has set the tone for DMart’s culture, which focuses on providing an excellent shopping experience. The company’s customer-centric strategy has helped it become one of India’s largest and most successful retail chains.
What makes this year’s Top 50 list more inspiring is the men like Damani who from humble beginnings, have climbed every mountain to rise to the top.
Damani was born in Mumbai in 1956, where he was raised in a one-room apartment. He dropped out of college after his first year and entered the stock market as a broker and trader in the late 1980s.
He’s proved y-o-y that he has the mettle to lead by example; building an impressive legacy. Today, Damani operates more than 200 DMart-branded stores in 45 Indian cities.
11 NR Narayana Murthy, 79, Industrialist, Philanthropist
Last year, NR Narayana Murthy received the India Lifetime Achievement Award from the Chiratae Ventures Patrick J. McGovern Awards, which recognises leaders who have built organisations that have had a significant impact on their industry.
This award, though special, adds to the long list of honours that he has received over the decades.
While he led the IT revolution in India, he is and will always remain a simple man, and one of the most respected visionary voices in Indian business and industry.
In recent times, he has stressed that “India must reclaim its prominence in scientific innovation. History tells us that India was a leading nation leveraging the power of ideas in mathematics, astronomy, engineering, medicine, and surgery from the Vedic times” Further, he added: “Global academic history shows that good governance, academic freedom, meritocracy, encouragement, respect, admiration, and sufficient government funding are essential for restoring India’s former glory.”
A philanthropist who focuses on solutions for the betterment of society, he is in no small way aided by his wife, Sudha Murthy, who is equally responsible, not just for the success of Infosys, additionally for single-handedly evangelising the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility.
12 Sudhir Mehta, 70, Industrialist
Image Courtesy: Forbes
Sudhir Mehta is chairman emeritus of the $2.7 billion (revenue) Torrent Group comprising Torrent Pharma, Torrent Power and Torrent Gas.
In 2024, Torrent Pharmaceuticals had a revenue of 83.7 billion Indian rupees ($1 billion). Torrent Power distributes electricity to over 4.1 million customers in Gujarat and two other states. Torrent Gas announced plans to invest $1.3 billion over five years to build compressed natural gas stations.
The 64-year-old company (Torrent Pharma) was founded by his late father Uttambhai Nathalal Mehta, who was a salesman for Swiss pharma giant Sandoz.
The year 2024 was indeed a clincher for Dr Mehta who was bestowed as —Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year, in the ‘Business & Industry’ category.
13 Aroon Purie, 80, Media Baron
After a rather serendipitous start in print journalism with India Today, Purie has been the rock behind the success of the group, setting standards in print, television and internet journalism, besides leading many transformations in Indian news media over the past 50 years.
This has deservedly accrued him the Managing India Award for Lifetime Contribution to Media at the 50th AIMA National Management Convention in 2023.
Still very relevant and on top of the latest happenings, he is a constant source of encouragement to his staff, he makes sure that no stone is left unturned and every detail accounted for whilst reporting.
Purie’s exacting standards are still exacting. At his welcome address at the 21st IndiaToday Conclave included a call to action for an “India Movement”:
“We are on the way to become the 3rd largest economy in the world in terms of our GDP. But becoming an economic giant is not an end by itself. We have to become a Great Nation. We cannot rise economically and descend in our conduct and our character.
- Can we be a great nation without knowing which side of the road to drive on?
Every year, nearly 10,000 Indians lose lives in accidents caused by people driving on the wrong side of the road.
-Can we be a great nation with ever rising mountains of garbage surrounding our urban centres.
-Can we be a great nation if most of our cities and towns are choking with pollution.
-Can we be a great nation when lynching or beating a person to death becomes commonplace.
-Can we be a great nation when we are regarded as the rape capital of the world. Also, violence against women is treated as a routine affair.
-Can we be a great nation if our election funding is open to question.
-Can we be a great nation by confusing disagreement with dissent, dissent with disloyalty and disloyalty with treason?
-Can we be a great nation if we live in fear of our government
There are many more hard questions like these that I am sure you ask yourself every day.
And I think most of you know the answer.
It’s a resounding NO.
We need to measure what I call our Gross Domestic Behaviour—GDB if you like—just as we measure GDP.”
Epic!
14 Vineet Jain, 61, Media
After an amicable parting with brother Samir, Vineet Jain now runs the television, digital and experiential forays of the group.
“The digital medium is interactive, and the newspaper is a one-way, passive medium. Interactive media always wins over passive media. We believe that Times Internet, our digital arm, will one day be a larger business than BCCL is now. Today, it reaches over 171 million users, who spend billions of minutes a month across a number of our products. At the same time, we continue to focus on providing value to consumers across all media — print, television, radio, and others,” said Jain on leading India’s media into the future.
Given all the changes taking place in digital and video, clearly the future is bright for Vineet Jain.
15 Harsh Goenka 67, Industrialist
In a recent post on ‘X’, RPG Group Chairman Harsh Goenka honoured India’s top business figures, attributing their success to passion and legacy.
“Why Ratan Tata inspires. Why Mukesh Ambani builds empires. Why Anand Mahindra tweets wisdom. Why Kumar Birla globalises. Why Sanjiv Bajaj transforms finance. Why Uday Kotak strategises. Why Narayana Murthy pioneers IT. Why Azim Premji gives generously. Why Nikhil Kamath disrupts markets. Why Gautam Adani scales heights. Why Harsh Mariwala innovates FMCG. Why Noel Tata dreams retail. Why Falguni Nayar empowers beauty. Why Sridhar Vembu champions simplicity. Why Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw makes breakthroughs. Why Vinod Khosla funds ideas. Why Deepinder Goyal changes how we eat. Because business is not just work; it’s passion turned into legacy.”
He is much more than the Chairman of RPG Group, and beyond just being among the 100 richest Indians, he has what it takes to stay on top of his game.
“One of my proudest achievements has been commissioning public sculptures in Mumbai. These works, designed by renowned artists, now stand as cultural landmarks across the city. Public art has the power to elevate our collective experience of a city, offering moments of reflection in the midst of our busy lives,” says Goenka.
A self-confessed ‘happiness addict’, Goenka’s concern on India being ranked 126th on the Global Happiness Index got him over 96k views. It shows that India’s youth want to be heard and Goenka is lending his ears for ideas to help rectify this situation.
Goenka inspires and invigorates through his tweets and his growing following indicates that he influences a massive number of people across ages and demographics.
16 Harsh Mariwala, 68, Businessman
Harsh Mariwala, the Founder and Chairman of Marico Limited, was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Mint India Investment Summit 2024. “I am humbled to have been honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Mint India Investment Summit 2024. Looking back on my journey with Marico fills me with immense gratitude. It is only because of the hard work, dedication, and passion of the entire Marico team over the decades.”
Constant innovation in thinking and finding unique solutions are permanent fixtures in Mariwala’s gambit for supremacy. His vision and keen awareness to learn ensures a sweet spot for Marico in the FMCG space.
But it hasn’t been a smooth sail. “Your degree is not your education,” he says, and continues: “Entrepreneurs lay so much emphasis on having this one grand vision for their ventures. I’ve always believed otherwise. With time, I’ve evolved my vision. This has always enabled us to explore newer opportunities.”
17 Sanjiv Goenka, 64, Industrialist
The RPSG Group used to be dependent on the power sector which contributed to 80% of the company’s revenues. Today, CESC has been restructured into four separate companies.
Steering the conglomerate’s expansion into diverse sectors has revealed his strategic acumen and business resilience.
His ownership of IPL and ISL teams reflects his passion for sports. With a net worth of 3.49 billion USD, his economic might is significant, complemented by philanthropic endeavours aimed at social welfare and education. Goenka’s leadership and strategic acumen has not only expanded the group’s horizons but contributed to the steady growth of the Indian economy. His most recent foray is in the field of media where he is bringing in a slew of international titles to the country.
He is quoted as saying: “The way I see it, my business can be defined into two categories: one was what I inherited and the other is what I have done with the inheritance.” Indeed.
18 Anand Mahindra, 69, Industrialist
Anand Mahindra certainly had a fulfilling 2024 with his conglomerate achieving impressive success across industries.
Stockmarket growth saw Mahindra & Mahindra’s share price increase by 77%, the highest compounded annual growth rate among NIFTY50 companies since 2002.
Mahindra became the world’s 11th most valuable automobile manufacturer, levelling up in global rankings
Sustainability leadership saw consistent progress as Mahindra was included in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index for the fourth year in a row, and was the top automotive OEM in the index.
Mahindra sold nearly 825,000 vehicles and 380,000 tractors, an 18% increase in vehicle sales. The company maintained its leadership in the tractor market for the 41st year in a row. Mahindra introduced the XUV 400 EL Pro variant and won three Electric Car of the Year awards.
Summing up the company’s achievements of 2024, Mahindra highlighted India’s growing geopolitical and economic strength, calling on the group to seize opportunities in the evolving global landscape. “India is no longer the 99-pound lightweight on the beach. It can demonstrate military might,” said Mahindra. He encouraged his team to visualise and actively shape a better future. ‘Manifesting’ indicates to me that no matter how uncertain the world is, how unpredictable the ‘slings and arrows of outrageous fortune’ are, people still believe that they can visualise and manifest a better life and a better world,” he said.
Mahindra concluded optimistically, championing the ethos of “Rising to take charge of our destiny” for 2025.
Quintessentially Anand Mahindra – high in EQ and way above in his vision for a solid future.
19 Anil Agarwal, 69, Industrialist
Anil Agarwal is a lot more than an industrialist. He has always supported meaningful initiatives that combine philanthropy with cultural growth. In a significant move that connects art, culture, and innovation across continents, Anil Agarwal, Founder and Chairman of Vedanta Group, will now own the iconic Riverside Studios. The 100-year-old studio, which is a renowned global centre for arts and located on the north bank of the River Thames, London, will now operate under the name ‘Anil Agarwal Riverside Studios Trust’.
This is a small example of what makes Anil Agarwal a huge star in his field. In 2024, Anil Agarwal and the Anil Agarwal Foundation (AAF) had a good year indeed.
Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal announced plans to increase production across various segments, including doubling Hindustan Zinc’s production, significantly increasing oil and aluminium output, and producing 500,000 barrels of oil and gas.
The AAF invested ₹437 crore in over 153 social projects across India, benefiting 1.73 crore people. The AAF’s initiatives include Supporting 6,044 Nand Ghars, which have impacted over 238,000 children and 178,000 women, Benefiting 1.48 lakh animals through animal welfare projects, supporting 17 lakh people through healthcare initiatives, improving community infrastructure for 5.22 lakh people, to mention just a few.
Agarwal has consistently used his powerful influence to serve the greater good of the country.
We said it last time and we’ll say it again: What was that saying? When you give, you receive 10-fold…
20 Nandan Nilekani, 68, Anil Agarwal
Long before Aadhaar, Nilekani, who was then Co-founder, CEO, president and managing director of Infosys, was selling a vision of India to the world that today is much more apparent to many.
With the AI revolution in full throttle, Nandan Nilekani’s opinion is that all AI should be use-case-led which can be amplified to make the lives of common people better.
How do you ensure that AI benefits a country where nearly one in four people are illiterate? This is the kind of question being asked by Adbhut India, Nilekani’s latest project.
“India’s digital transformation began with Aadhaar,” he told Time magazine. “Clearly, [AI] will lead to productivity improvement and automation, including in the area of customer service.” That boost in productivity, Nilekani thinks, will eventually outweigh job losses within the sector.
Nandan has co-founded and is the Chairman of EkStep, a not-for-profit effort to create a learner centric, technology-based platform to improve basic literacy and numeracy for millions of children.
An author of bestselling books, Nilekani’s voice is much respected across the nation on business and social issues. A true visionary of our times, India is lucky to have not lost him to foreign shores.
21 Dr Cyrus Poonawalla, 83, Industrialist
Dr Cyrus S Poonawalla is Chairman and Managing Director of the Cyrus Poonawalla Group, which includes the Serum Institute of India (SII), the largest vaccine manufacturer in the world and Poonawalla Fincorp, a keen player in the financial space in India.
In October 2024, Poonawalla and his family were ranked ninth on Forbes list of India’s 100 richest tycoons, with a net worth of $24.5 billion.
Last year, Poonawalla was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the CNBC TV18 India Business Leader Awards (IBLA). He was honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 2022 for his lifetime of work in the biotech space.
Some of the recent achievements of SII include R21/Matrix-M Malaria Vaccine, collaboration with University of Oxford: SII is working with the university to develop a chimeric protein-based vaccine for Men-B disease. Together with Univercells, SII is partnering with the Belgian biotech innovator to increase access to personalised cancer care. SII is working with ImmunityBio to manufacture BCG on a large scale.
“We reach more children than Coca-Cola and PepsiCo can ever hope to,” he has famously said. We doff our hat to you, Dr Poonawalla.
22 Uday Shankar, 63, Media Baron
An Indian media executive and former journalist, in 2024, Uday Shankar was appointed Vice Chairman of JioStar, a media company that was formed by the merger of Disney’s Star India and Reliance Industries’ Viacom18.
Shankar has played a key role in transforming India’s media landscape. After working with a slew of media entities, Shankar assumed a leadership position in Aaj Tak and then CEO of Star News in 2007 where he created pioneering television content, including the talk show Satyamev Jayate. He also transformed cricket coverage on television and popularised kabaddi.
A few years later, he was made CEO of Star India which later turned into a regional position with Disney Star. Shankar believes that JioStar has the potential to reshape India’s media and entertainment landscape. He says that the merger provides a strong foundation for innovation and experimentation
In 2022, Shankar and James Murdoch co-founded Bodhi Tree, which uses technology to provide solutions for consumer-engaged sectors.
The media in India is gung-ho about Shankar, talking about his ‘Rise & Rise’; we agree that he’s certainly a person to track in 2025.
23 Dr Mahendra Mohan Gupta, 83 Media baron
The Guptas – Dr Mahendra Mohan and the next generation – are the owners of the largest-selling daily in India, Dainik Jagran, with a readership of 5.59 crore people, they reach Indians across the country.
As of 2023, Dr Mahendra is Non-Executive Chairman of the Company. However, his inspirational leadership throughout the earlier decades has left its indelible stamp on every aspect of the company’s functioning.
As a member of the Rajya Sabha, Gupta assumed the “voice of the media” in Parliament, batting for his colleagues at any given opportunity. He has been the driving force behind the CSR of the company under the umbrella of the Shri Puran Chandra Gupta Smarak Trust.
Given its dominance in the all-important state of Uttar Pradesh, Gupta and his family have enormous influence on daily and key matters in the country.
24 Rajnikanth, 75, Actor
Shivajirao Gaekwad aka Rajnikanth was born in humble environs and evolved from a bus conductor into one of biggest megastars in Indian cinema.
Rajinikanth, who began his career in 1975, remains one of Tamil cinema’s biggest names despite the emergence of several younger stars. The mass hero is regarded as a synonym for style and swag.
Rajinikanth’s 2023 film Jailer was a blockbuster, earning over ₹600 crore. It made him the only actor in the Tamil film industry to have two films gross over ₹500 crore.
Rajinikanth’s film Jailer won the Best Picture award at the 2024 IIFA Utsavam and at the 2024 South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA).
From people worshiping him (well, his cut-outs) with milk before his film release to politicians quaking when he speaks his mind, his words have a tremendous impact on people. He also received the UAE Golden Visa in 2024. Now that’s what you call power!
25 Savitri Jindal, 84, Businesswoman, Politician
With a net worth of $36.3 billion, Savitri Jindal is the richest woman in India, the fifth-richest Indian, and the world’s seventh-richest mother.
Jindal was known for her view that the women in their family primarily manage the household and do not participate in the business aspect. However, everything changed following her husband’s demise in a helicopter crash in 2005. She had a choice and she took charge of business.
Jindal, a mother of nine children, divided the group’s companies among her four sons, who now operate them independently.
Jindal joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in March 2024 ahead of the 2024 Indian general elections. In October 2024, she contested independently in Haryana State Assembly elections from Hisar and won.
We love this story: A small homemaker from Assam some years ago, wields tremendous power and influence today; and that’s how stars are born!
26 Sunil Mittal, 67, Industrialist
“The public digital infrastructure network that India has built over the last few years is boosting our growth,” said the telecom baron. And boy did his growth get a boost!
In 2024, Mittal’s net worth doubled to $26 billion, a gain of $10.3 billion in 2024, ranked seventh on Forbes’ list of India’s 100 richest tycoons
Mittal’s fortune is largely due to the expansion of Bharti Airtel’s investments in 5G technology, partnerships, and acquisitions.
At the India Mobile Conference 2024 (IMC), Mittal advocated for satellite companies to follow the same rules as telecom operators, including purchasing spectrum and paying license fees.
Mittal is also known for his investments in commercial and residential infrastructure projects across India. In 2007, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third highest civilian honour.
27 Ajay Piramal, 69, Industrialist
“Piramal Enterprises riding out of tough times” was the headline of a recent Forbes article on the conglomerate. But we all know in business what this means. Piramal stays rock solid in his approach and vision. “There are always highs and lows in life, but if you maintain an even keel, then you can make the right decisions,” he says.
Ajay Piramal took charge of the family textile business at a young age, but over the decades, he has repeatedly proved his success as a leader with vision.
The Piramal Foundation works in tandem with state governments across 21 states in India to support health and welfare, education and provide safe drinking water for the poor amongst other social responsibilities.
Devotion to a higher being, a fearless attitude and a focus on action are some of his key values. That’s more power to you, Mr Piramal!
28 Amitabh Bachchan 82, Actor
That he is the greatest and most-loved Bollywood actor precedes everything he does. Professionally though, he has proven he excels at far more than acting.
A megastar with a mega-life to match. A man who has seen and done it all. The highs and the lows. An actor who through the decades is still a force to reckon with commanding the top spot in movies. Personally, he has evolved through his experiences, unafraid to show himself in a vulnerable light.
In 2024, Amitabh Bachchan received the Lata Deenanath Mangeshkar Award to add to his list of innumerable accolades.
Unarguably, Bachchan is a legend, but what defines him is his dignified manner and humility.
He has one of the most influential social media timelines across all of India. From updates about his work to throwback pictures with his friends and family, the superstar uses his X (formerly Twitter) handle to deepen the bonds with his fans. One tweet from him is heard by millions across the globe.
29 Dilip Shanghvi, 68, Businessman
In 2024, Forbes recognised Shanghvi as India’s 6th richest person with a net worth of US$22.2 billion. Widely regarded as the ‘Medicine Moghul’, Dilip Shanghvi worked hard to make Sun Pharmaceuticals the largest pharma company in India and fifth largest in the world.
In 1982, the then 27-year-old Shanghvi opened his first manufacturing unit with a capital of 10,000 rupees. He named his venture Sun Pharmaceutical Industries. The unit, in his native state of Gujarat in Vapi, produced exactly one psychiatric drug. However, the business soon picked up, thanks to Shanghvi’s acumen and energy.
Shanghvi is one of India’s richest and most influential people, diversifying into oil, gas and renewable energy sectors as well.
Today, Dilip Shanghvi’s relentless pursuit of excellence continues to shape the health industry, driving innovation and access to quality healthcare for millions.
The Shantilal Shanghvi Foundation, of which he is the Chairman, has earned him the Padma Shri in 2016, but the man himself is reticent and shys away from ‘tags’ of rich or richest. That’s what’s called inner power.
30 Shobhana Bhartia, 66, Media Baron
Though Shobhana Bhartia had the privilege of growing up in an environment that fostered entrepreneurial aspirations, she took advantage of her ‘leg up’, establishing herself as an exemplary role model for all women.
As the Chairperson and Editorial Director of HT Media, rebranding the Hindustan Times daily into HT – bright, young media – was Bhartia’s brainchild.
Bhartia was on the list of ‘Most powerful business women’ in Fortune India 2024. Says she: “Our use of technology has made us innovate in the space of driving more relevance for readers and advertisers by launching the HT One Audience solution. While the share of print fell marginally, digitals’ slice increased in FY2024.”
HT’s losses were down and revenues up thanks in no small measure to Bhartia’s relentless determination, strong leadership skills, and strategic vision. Her journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
31 Subhash Chandra, 74, Media Baron
The Essel Group, headed by Chandra, spans over Zee Entertainment and Zee Media, Dish TV and Siti Networks – a multi-system operator. The company revolutionised television broadcasting in India with Zee Entertainment.
After a challenging start to 2024, Chandra, the chairman of the Essel Group, is working to get Zee back to the top of the ratings
Returning to the studio floor is one of Chandra’s goals. He is back to selecting stories and making them into TV shows, which is what he did best in the early days of Zee TV. Trying to win back lost TV viewers in an era where streaming is reducing linear TV consumption is vital for Zee5, as is preparing for the competition from JioStar, which will offer a large selection of content for advertising and subscription revenues.
Dr Chandra remains one of most influential personalities in India’s media landscape. Chandra is the quintessential maverick personality with his successful entertainment and news channels, getting Zee5 back on track is vital.
On the ups and downs of life, Dr Chandra has said: “A strong person never runs away from the problem but fights it.” Well said.
32 Sunil Gavaskar, 76, Cricket Commentator, Former Cricketer
Sunil Gavaskar is a recipient of the Indian sports honour of the Arjuna Award and the civilian honour of Padma Bhushan. He was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in 2009, In 2012, he was awarded the C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest honour that the Indian Board can bestow on a former player.
Yet another was bestowed on him early last year: Champions of Change Maharashtra
The ‘little master’ is a big influencer of the game even today, both in India and worldwide. Widely regarded as one of the greatest opening batsmen of all time in men’s Test cricket history, Gavaskar is one of the most loved and stylish cricketers in the country.
Lending his expertise in the game via commentary on TV and special columns in print, his views are well-respected by both the men’s and ladies Indian cricket team and fans of the sport.
33 Pawan Munjal, 68, Businessman
In 2024, Pawan Munjal, the Executive Chairman of Hero MotoCorp, made a rare move. He voluntarily reduced his salary and commission by 20%. This was done to align with shareholder expectations and ensure the company’s financial health
You may argue that it is but a small dent, if any, to his massive wealth; but it’s the message you send across and the respect you earn as a result which often prove priceless—beyond all wealth.
Despite a pay cut of 20% in his salary and commission, his total emolument increased by 10% in FY24 to ₹109.41 crore.
Additionally, Hero Future Energies, the renewable energy arm of Hero, partnered with KKR to invest $450 million in expanding capacity.
Though the late Brijmohan Lall Munjal founded Hero Group, Pawan Munjal can take full credit for knocking the ball out of the park. His life story is a remarkable narrative of vision, perseverance, and a strong sense of social responsibility. His journey from a young entrepreneur to a business leader and philanthropist is marked by his unwavering commitment to excellence and his dedication to making a difference.
Says Munjal: “Innovation is not a slogan at Hero MotoCorp, it is a way of life in our organisation.”
34 Dr Devi Shetty, 70, Doctor, Entrepreneur
Devi Prasad Shetty is best described as a heart surgeon with a heart of gold. Shetty set up Narayana Hrudayalaya in 2001 with the motto: ‘None shall be turned away because they can’t pay.’ In 2021, he expanded his healthcare company, which is now listed on the stock exchange.
Dr Shetty is a highly respected luminary for his ingenious ideas for reforms in the healthcare sector. His visionary leadership to make quality healthcare accessible for all has drawn global recognition. Treading the path of economies of scale to bring down the cost of healthcare delivery, Narayana Hrudayalaya has been an interesting case study for the likes of Harvard and The Wall Street Journal. In association with the Government of Karnataka, Dr Shetty pioneered Yashaswini, a very inexpensive micro health insurance scheme benefitting more than 3.4 million rural poor.
Dr Shetty is the recipient of several prestigious awards including the Padma Bhushan, The Economist Innovation Award, Ernst and Young – Entrepreneur of the Year.
“In all my 33 years back in India the whole discussion was around affordable healthcare and cost reduction. But today, any further lowering of costs in medical procedures will be at the cost of quality and since we cannot compromise on the quality but do still need to make healthcare affordable, the only option available is affordable health insurance.” The hope for the country now, the doctor reminds us, “is not universal healthcare but universal health insurance.”
35 Shardul Shroff, 64, Corporate Lawyer
As a thought leader in the legal domain, Shroff has been consistently rated as a leading corporate and M&A lawyer, both internationally, and here in India.
After breaking away from his brother to form Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas, Shroff soared to even greater heights representing the cutting-edge of legal expertise, with a slew of high profile clients which include Meta (formerly Facebook).
Shroff is known for his thoroughness, innovation and problem-solving approach and his knowledge of regulation. His multi-practice expertise and experience is borne out in several rescue schemes, resolution plans and debt and corporate restructuring. Shroff has been instrumental in the advancement of India’s corporate law practice on par with international standards.
36 Harish Salve, 68, Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of India
India’s most high-profile lawyer is a tag that Harish Salve is used to. Salve has earned his mettle with cases fought in the Supreme and High Courts. He has represented high-profile clients like Mukesh Ambani, Mulayam Singh Yadav, Prakash Singh Badal and Lalit Modi.
“From Nani Palkhivala, I learnt that genius is a lot of hard work. It entails having the capacity to do what people find boring; that is where you hone your attention to detail. Palkhivala taught me to make excellence an end unto itself. He used to say that the measure of how well you’ve argued in court comes not from the decision of the court, but from how you personally feel you’ve performed. He opened up a whole new dimension of the world before me,” he says.
37 Kapil Sibal, 77, Lawyer, Politician
“After 30 years, it was time to quit and work as an Independent candidate. I would not speak against Congress at any point,” said Kapil Sibal in 2022 when re-joining the Rajya Sabha in an independent capacity. – Quintessential Sibal!
Sibal was elected again as President of the Bar Association in the Supreme Court for the year 2024–25.
Sibal needs no introduction unless you’ve been meditating for 40 years in the Himalayas; he is and has been one of the most revered (Supreme Court) lawyers in the country. A man who largely lives by his truths, stepping away from the Congress after a lifetime of working with the party through historical milestones, didn’t scale the shock quotient index.
Known for his forthright manner in articulating his vision, he pretty much nails his point down with élan. “India has changed. It is no longer the inclusive country we were born in. The (fundamental issues), dialogues of today are worrisome. If we do not stand up to this, our tomorrow will be in danger” he says. Hmmm.
38 Abhishek Manu Singhvi, 64, Lawyer
Abhishek Singhvi is an eminent jurist, writer and parliamentarian, known for his plain-speaking facts.
The youngest designated Senior Advocate – at the age of 34, the youngest Additional Solicitor General of India at 37; and, the youngest elected vice president of the Supreme Court Bar Association – at 39 are meritorious of this self-made man.
A November 2024 article sums up the objectivity and cerebral balance of the esteemed lawyer: “How do you judge a Chief Justice of India or, for that matter, any person in high office? The tests must be contextual to the job but, above all, if the overwhelming predominance of any person’s work is good, praiseworthy and positive, the fact that he has, fractionally, committed errors, does not deserve a harsh verdict. It only shows that he, like us all, has no claim to divinity or infallibility. When eminent persons, within and without the Bar, use the 10 per cent test to chastise or condemn, they not only choose to ignore the 90 per cent glass full but do disservice both to the man and to the institution.”
At a time in history when it has become increasingly difficult to plainspeak, our influential listers like Singhvi continue to hold their own mettle.
Singhvi has pledged Rs 2 crore to establish The Singhvi Trinity Scholarship at Cambridge, to focus exclusively on Indian students desirous of pursuing an LLM.
39 Uday Kotak, 67, Banker
The year 2024 was a notable on for Uday Kotak. Not only was he ranked 18th on the Forbes list of India’s richest people, Kotak was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his role in transforming India’s financial landscape.
Kotak’s 10-point action plan for India includes focusing on growth, productivity, eliminating current account deficit, increasing defence investment, maintaining fiscal consolidation, avoiding over-regulation, respecting free markets, and tackling pollution as India approaches its 77th year.
Uday Kotak reshaped India’s financial sector through Kotak Mahindra Bank, driving growth in banking, investment services, and financial inclusion with strategic insights and resilience.
“If what you create does not outlive you, then you have failed,” states a profound Kotak Instagram post.
40 Vijay Chauhan 87, Businessman
Courtesy: Forbes
When you are patriarch of the family business that manufactures the world’s largest selling biscuit, you can verily give yourself a pat on the back.
The engineering graduate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology points out that 15 billion Parle G biscuits stacked side-to-side (each biscuit measures 53mm), would be enough to cover the distance from the earth to the moon and back.
Parle (named after the Mumbai suburb of Vile Parle), was co-founded by Vijay’s late father Kantilal Chauhan as a confectionery maker in 1929 in Mumbai.
Chauhan made his debut on the Forbes India Rich List in 2015 with a net worth of $2.7 billion, which has since surged to $8.3 billion in 2024, securing him the 34th spot. In 2024, Vijay Chauhan was honoured with the 2024 Barclays Private Clients Hurun India Award for Iconic Family Business Legacy.
41 Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, 67, Yogi, Author
Sadhguru keeps himself relevant and sought after – whether it’s his #SaveSoil movement which has won him global acclaim or his unflinching clarity of perception which sets him apart – not only as a spiritual guide but also as a formidable voice in business, environmental advocacy, and global affairs.
He is the quintessential guru about town, or rather, the world. Extensively involved in a range of issues, it is his ability to sync with the youth that has made his popularity grow.
In typical Sadhguru style, he flips the narrative, challenging the very notion of being ‘driven’. According to him, we should not be driven by anything; instead, we must take the wheel of our own lives.
His perspective on consciousness is equally provocative. “Anything you are not conscious of—even if it’s the biggest thing in the universe—it doesn’t exist for you.” Consciousness, he explains, isn’t selective; it’s like light. “You turn on the light, and you see what’s here. You don’t only see what you like—if you do that, you’ll go insane. One day, you’ll see only what pleases you, and the next, you’ll be overwhelmed by what you dislike. Only when you see everything as it is can you truly navigate your way through life.”
He creates ripples where he goes, and he goes places.
42 Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, 68, Spiritual Guru
Being reticent doesn’t make Sri Sri Ravi Shankar less influential. In fact it is exactly his soft-spoken manner and gentle aura that have made him hugely sought after the world over. He travels roughly 100 countries annually, spreading his art of spiritual living to countless followers.
His contributions are plenty. He has mediated peace negotiations in conflict-stricken regions such as Sri Lanka, Iraq, Venezuela, and Colombia. His humanitarian efforts dedicating his life to spreading meditation across 180 countries has been exceedingly successful.
His status on Instagram: My Vision is a Stress-Free, Violence-Free World, and to See a Smile on Every Face.
Here’s hoping he succeeds.
43 Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, 72, Entrepreneur
A self-made woman and one of India’s richest, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson of Biocon Ltd. and Biocon Biologics Ltd.
A first generation entrepreneur and global business leader with over four decades of experience in biotechnology. Recipient of Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan.
The lady deservedly rakes in the awards y-o-y with élan. Among the latest feathers in her cap, in 2024, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw received the Jamsetji Tata Award for her work in the biosciences sector in India.
Says Mazumdar-Shaw, “As a scientist, I was inspired by the vision of creating an organisation that leverages science and technology to widen access to lifesaving drugs for patients on the lowest rung of the economic ladder. It is through our philosophy of affordable innovation that we have been able to make a difference to global health equity by ensuring that no patient anywhere in the world is denied essential and lifesaving biologic drugs on account of affordability.”
44 Prathap C Reddy, 92, Doctor, Entrepreneur
Over the last three decades, India’s medical landscape has seen a massive shift, and in no small measure, Apollo Hospitals and Dr Reddy have played a major role in bringing about this revolution.
After a flourishing (cardiology) practice of his dreams in the US, Dr Reddy was asked by his father to return to India. He soon realised that the medical landscape in the country was plagued by several gaps, such as, poor infrastructure, abysmal delivery, and un-affordability.
The cardiologist turned an entrepreneur at 50, despite a lot of opposition. He founded the first corporate chain of multi-speciality hospitals in India, the Apollo Hospitals.
“The only legacy I would want is the recognition of the importance of health for people. You may be born healthy, but you can become unhealthy. Therefore, health should be prioritised over wealth. I recall a quote that stated, ‘Medical expenditure is not an expenditure; it’s an investment in your health’. People must remember the importance of health right from the beginning… Focusing on health will ensure that both health and happiness go hand in hand.
Apollo has been an incredible journey, and I cannot think of anyone else who has returned to India to establish a healthcare business from scratch. It wasn’t initially my plan to become a businessman, but circumstances led me down this path.” – In Business Today 2024
Dr Reddy has been providing quality healthcare in India since 1983, and there are no signs of him slowing down. As one of the country’s oldest billionaires, he continues to shatter stereotypes by maintaining an active six day work routine. Also, the most senior person of our influential list, he says, ‘health has no holiday’. We salute you Sir.
45 Sandeep Bakhshi, 63, Banker
When Bakhshi entered the corner office of ICICI in October 2018, the bank had a lot on its plate, including the mired-in-controversial departure of then MD and CEO Chanda Kochhar. A sizable decline in the quality of assets in the corporate book was not good news. Since then he’s turned everything around.
Fortune India dubs Bakhshi as ICICI’s Mr Dependable.
Bakhshi insists on internal collaboration, which basically means better coordination among teams on the ground and the head office or the product heads.
That’s the Bakhshi mantra communicated to his 140,000-strong workforce: the importance of building a sustainable business strategy and an organisation that can stand the test of time.
46 Jamshyd Godrej, 77, Adi Godrej 83, Nadir Godrej 73, Industrialists
Over the past few decades, most urban Indian families have been touched by the Godrej brand. From locks and safes to consumer products, electronics and real estate, the group has diversified into various businesses over the years. When it comes to influential personalities in the world of business, the name of Jamshyd Godrej, Chairman and Managing Director of Godrej & Boyce, shines bright. He believes that there is a growing role for every next generation in family businesses. “The next generation is always smarter than the previous one, and their contribution will be enormous,” he told NDTV Profit last year. In June 2024, the family announced the rare amicable settlement of asset ownership under which assets were split between Jamshyd and his cousins Adi and Nadir, who will steer the consumer products and agrovet businesses. Adi and his younger brother Nadir were ranked 21st on Forbes list of India’s 100 richest tycoons, with a net worth of $11.2 billion. Among the names in the history books of Indian business, Godrej Group Chairman Adi Godrej would prominently feature as one of the finest icons the country has seen. Meanwhile, Nadir Godrej is the Chairman and Managing Director of Godrej Industries and also chairs agribusiness unit Godrej Agrovet. He was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award by the Pesticides Manufacturers & Formulators Association of India (PMFAI in 2024. “Ethical businesses and business practices was another big theme for the family, and that certainly continues. That’s the ethos of our founders that continues.”
47 Falguni Nayar, 60, Entrepreneur
The Nykaa story is intriguing more so because it aptly defines the proverb ‘Better late than never!’
In 2009, at 46, Nayar aspired to start a company. She got a few ideas in 2011, including establishing a multi-brand e-commerce company. As a result, she took the risk of leaving a comfortable and lucrative job as a Managing Director in the Kotak Mahindra Group in 2012.
In 2024, Falguni Nayar was recognised for her achievements in a number of ways, including being named one of India’s top self-made entrepreneurs by IDFC First Private Banking and Hurun India.
Nayar was listed on Forbes India’s list of self-made women billionaires, and was also considered for inclusion in Forbes’ 50 Over 50 Global list, which highlights women over 50 who are breaking down gender and age norms.
The growth of Nykaa as a brand is exemplary. Today, Nykaa is proud to sustain over 5 million monthly active users. It offers over 500 top brands of both self-care and makeup and 130,000 products. All these products are available both at the Nykaa app and offline stores. More recently, Nayar revealed the company’s potential expansion into the wellness sector.
Nayar took Nykaa public in November 2021, becoming India’s richest self-made female entrepreneur in the process.
“Dare to Dream” says the irrepressible beauty boss. Kudos to this enterprising young Indian!
48 Leena Tewari, 67, Chairperson
With a net worth of $3.2 Billion in 2024, Leena Tewari is India’s sixth wealthiest woman, according to Forbes. She is chairperson of USV India, one of India’s top five cardiovascular and diabetic medicines companies which was founded by her late grandfather Vithal Gandhi.
Under Tewari’s strategic vision, USV ventured into manufacturing, including a notable partnership with Revlon. A key development in USV’s growth was the acquisition of the German generics company Juta Pharma in 2018, a feather in Tewaris cap driving the global expansion of the company.
The media-shy pharma queen is a veritable queen of hearts, coming in at number three for her philanthropic work. Her interests also extend beyond her corporate responsibilities. Tewari is an enthusiastic reader and writer, passionate about dance and nature. She is particularly fond of wildlife and forest explorations. In 2012 she launched a biography of her grandfather, ‘Beyond Pipes & Dreams – The Life of Vithal Balkrishna Gandhi’.
Tewari’s journey is a powerful illustration of blending professional success with a deep sense of social responsibility. Her story underpins essential core values—true power encompasses not just financial accomplishments but more the positive impact that you have on society for future generations.
49 The Influencer
The new entrant in our Top 50 list.
While most of the trailblazing influencers are in their 20s or 30s, there is a growing number of voices from the seniorhood who are commanding attention and respect in today’s world.
They are not politicians, nor industrialists, actors, journalists, or lawyers. But they possess something invaluable—a point of view that resonates with people across generations.
They are the Influencers. They have mastered the art of presenting their perspectives clearly and compellingly, often through social media and digital platforms. And despite their age, they are being heard by everyone.
In the years to come, expect the tribe of influencers among the 60-plussers to grow. They may not conform to traditional expectations, but they are making their mark and creating meaningful change in ways that were once reserved for younger generations.
Their voice is one we should all listen to, for it is rich with experience, wisdom, and insight that often goes untapped. Watch out for this wave of influence—they are here to stay.
50 The Unknown Indian
You know who you are.
You may be considered as just an ‘ordinary’ citizen and your extraordinariness goes unsung. Yet you go on…
Y-o-y you are our most influential person because you use your inner power to get the smallest things done. The things that go unnoticed in the buzz and humdrum of everyday life.
You don’t need to be on the rich list; your riches lie in your ability and determination to make our world a better place.
We may place you at 50 but you total up to 100!
The list of good deeds you do is endless
To’ The Unknown Indians’ – YOU are the most powerful influencers of a better India – waking up each day to serve, with no expectation of reward or accolades.
We honour each one of you, and thank you for inspiring others, through your unconditional love and kindness. For making our country and the world a brighter place – every day.
