A humanitarian extraordinaire
Shiv Nadar is an Indian billionaire businessman, philanthropist, and the founder of HCL Technologies, one of India’s leading IT services companies. Born on July 14, 1945, in Tiruchendur, Tamil Nadu, India, Nadar has made significant contributions to the Indian IT industry. Shiv Nadar was born on July 14, 1945, in Moolaipozhi village, Tiruchendur, Tamil Nadu, India. He was born into a Tamil-speaking Nadar family. Nadar’s family had modest means, and his father was a government official. During his childhood, Nadar showed a keen interest in electronics and technology. He was fascinated by gadgets and often tinkered with radios and other electronic devices.
His early exposure to technology sparked his interest in pursuing a career in the field of electronics and engineering. Despite facing financial constraints, Nadar was a bright student and excelled academically. He completed his schooling in Tamil Nadu and went on to pursue a degree in electrical engineering from PSG College of Technology in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Nadar’s upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and a sense of perseverance, which would later become defining traits in his entrepreneurial journey. His childhood experiences, coupled with his passion for technology, laid the foundation for his future endeavours in the IT industry.
Nadar’s journey from his humble beginnings in a small village to becoming one of India’s most successful entrepreneurs is a testament to his determination, hard work, and vision. His childhood experiences played a significant role in shaping his character and his aspirations for the future.
In 1976, Nadar founded HCL (Hindustan Computers Limited) in partnership with a group of colleagues. Initially, the company focused on selling calculators and microprocessors but later shifted its focus to IT services. Under Nadar’s leadership, HCL Technologies grew rapidly and became a global IT services provider, offering a wide range of services including software development, infrastructure management, engineering services, and business process outsourcing. Nadar is known for his visionary leadership and innovative approach to business.
He has been instrumental in shaping the growth of the Indian IT industry and has played a key role in positioning India as a global IT hub. Apart from his business ventures, Shiv Nadar outshines everyone in India because of his philanthropic work. He has topped the list of Indian philanthropists by donating a whopping Rs 2042 crores annually.
The 79-year-old Shiv Nadar has topped this list of top philanthropists in India for the third time in a row. He established the Shiv Nadar Foundation in 1994, which is involved in various educational and social initiatives aimed at transforming lives through education. The foundation runs several educational institutions, including the Shiv Nadar University, which is known for its focus on interdisciplinary education and research.
The university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines such as engineering, humanities, social sciences, management, and natural sciences. In addition to the university, the foundation also supports the VidyaGyan schools, which provide free education and residential facilities to economically disadvantaged rural children in Uttar Pradesh, India.
These schools aim to identify and nurture talented students from underprivileged backgrounds, providing them with access to quality education and opportunities for personal and academic growth. Additionally, the Shiv Nadar Foundation is involved in various other initiatives, including healthcare programs, rural development projects, and initiatives to promote art and culture.
Nadar’s philanthropic efforts have had a significant impact on the lives of many individuals and communities in India, empowering them through education and providing them with opportunities for a better future.
Recognizing his contributions, Shiv Nadar has been awarded in multiple forums. Some of the notable awards and honors conferred upon him include:
1. Padma Bhushan: India’s third-highest civilian award, awarded to him in 2008 for his contributions to trade and industry.
2. Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Awarded in 2007 for his exceptional entrepreneurial achievements in the IT industry.
3. Dataquest Lifetime Achievement Award: Conferred upon him in 2008 in recognition of his pioneering role in the Indian IT sector.
4. Forbes Lifetime Achievement Award: Received in 2009 for his outstanding contributions to entrepreneurship and philanthropy.
5. NDTV Indian of the Year: Named NDTV Indian of the Year in 2010 for his significant impact on business and philanthropy.
6. Asia House Asian Business Leaders Award: Honoured with this award in 2010 for his leadership in the Asian business community. These awards highlight Shiv Nadar’s remarkable achievements in both business and philanthropy, showcasing his enduring impact on the IT industry and broader society.
