- Full Name: Shiv Nadar
- Occupation: Indian IT Pioneer, Philanthropist
- Date of Birth: July 14, 1945
- Age: 78
- Net Worth: $27.3 billion (Real Time Net Worth as of 8/30/23)
- Ranking: #55 in the world’s billionaires (as of 8/30/23)
- Wealth History: $25.6 billion (2023 Billionaires Net Worth as of 4/4/23)
- Source of Wealth: Software services, Self Made
- Residence: Delhi, India
- Citizenship: India
- Marital Status: Married
- Children: 1
- Education: Bachelor of Arts/Science from PSG College of Technology
Biography:
Shiv Nadar, born on July 14, 1945, is a prominent Indian IT pioneer and philanthropist, best known for co-founding HCL (Hindustan Computers Limited) and his significant contributions to the technology industry and education-related causes.
In 1976, Shiv Nadar and five of his friends launched HCL in a garage with the initial aim of producing calculators and microprocessors. Over the years, the company evolved into HCL Technologies, one of India’s largest software services providers. Under Nadar’s leadership, HCL Technologies achieved remarkable success, and by 2023, it generated a revenue of $12.6 billion.
Nadar’s influence extended beyond his business endeavors. In recognition of his contributions to the company’s growth and development, he was named the chairman of HCL Technologies. However, in July 2020, he stepped down from the chairman position and assumed the role of chairman emeritus and strategic advisor. His daughter, Roshni Nadar Malhotra, succeeded him as the chairman of HCL Technologies.
One of the distinctive aspects of HCL Technologies is its approach to hiring and training. The company employs over 225,000 people in 60 countries, including high school graduates whom it trains on the job, contributing to their skill development and career growth.
Shiv Nadar’s commitment to philanthropy is noteworthy. He is recognized as one of India’s leading philanthropists and has made substantial donations to various causes through the Shiv Nadar Foundation. The foundation, which he established, focuses on education-related initiatives. To date, he has donated around $1.1 billion to the foundation, making a significant impact on education and society.
Nadar’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts/Science degree from PSG College of Technology. Interestingly, his primary education was conducted in the south Indian language of Tamil, and he only started speaking English fluently around the age of 22.
Beyond his professional achievements, Shiv Nadar’s wife, Kiran, is also known for her passion for art. She is an avid art collector and has established two private art museums in Delhi to showcase her extensive art collection.
Shiv Nadar’s journey from co-founding a startup in a garage to becoming a major player in the global technology and philanthropic landscape underscores his significant contributions to both the business world and society at large.