From humble beginnings in a garage to building a multi-billion dollar IT empire, Shiv Nadar's story is a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and philanthropy. The founder of HCL Technologies, Nadar has not only left an indelible mark on the Indian IT industry but has also emerged as one of the country's most generous philanthropists.
Nadar's journey began in 1976 when he co-founded Hindustan Computers Limited (HCL) with an initial investment of Rs 1.87 lakh. Operating out of a garage, the company focused on developing calculators and microprocessors. Over the decades, HCL has transformed into a global tech giant, with a presence in 60 countries and employing over 200,000 people as of 2024. Nadar stepped down as chairperson of HCL in 2020 but continues to serve as chairman emeritus and strategic advisor.
Beyond his contributions to the IT sector, Nadar is celebrated for his philanthropic endeavors. According to the EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2025, Shiv Nadar and his family, through the Shiv Nadar Foundation, donated ₹2,708 crore in FY25. This translates to roughly ₹7.4 crore (Rs 74 million) per day. This figure marks a 26% increase compared to the previous fiscal year, with the foundation's donations primarily focused on education, and art & culture.
The Shiv Nadar Foundation, established in 1994, reflects Nadar's commitment to education and research. By 2024, the foundation had invested over USD 1.5 billion, impacting over 39,000 students and alumni. Nadar's dedication to philanthropy has led to him donating more than even Asia's richest person, Mukesh Ambani.
Nadar's philanthropic efforts are part of a larger trend of increasing philanthropy in India. The EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2025 indicates a rise in both the number of philanthropists and the average donation amount. The top 25 individuals on the list donated ₹50,000 crore in five financial years, averaging ₹46 crore every day. The number of self-made philanthropists has also increased, reaching 101 in FY25, up from 36 in FY23.
Shiv Nadar's story is an inspiring example of how entrepreneurial success can be leveraged to create meaningful social impact. From a garage startup to a global IT leader and a leading philanthropist, Nadar's journey exemplifies the transformative potential of combining business acumen with a commitment to giving back to society.
