Top Tamil millionaires | Top Richest Persons in TamilNadu

Forbes magazine recently published its annual list of the 100 richest Indians for 2021, and this year, Tamil Nadu has proudly made its mark. While Anil Ambani led the list with a staggering net worth of $97.5 billion, Tamil Nadu boasted the presence of several notable billionaires. These influential figures have played key roles in transforming various industries, from technology to media. 

Top Richest Persons in TamilNadu

Here’s a look at the richest persons in Tamil Nadu and the stories behind their immense success.

1. Shiv Nadar: A Pioneer in the IT Industry

One of the most well-known names among the richest persons in Tamil Nadu is H. Shiv Nadar, the founder of HCL Technologies. Although he stepped down as the Chairman and Managing Director of HCL in 2021, Nadar remains actively involved with the company as its honorary chairman and advisor to the board of directors. He founded HCL in 1976 alongside Ajay Chaudhary, revolutionizing the computer and software industries. HCL is now one of the most prominent players in the global IT sector.

In addition to his contributions to the tech world, Shiv Nadar is also known for his philanthropic efforts. In 1996, he founded SSN College of Engineering, which has become one of the top educational institutions in India. As of 2021, Nadar's net worth stands at $31.6 billion, making him the fifth richest person in India. Over the last year, his wealth has surged by over $10 billion, cementing his position among the top richest persons in Tamil Nadu.

2. The Murugappa Family: A Legacy of Diversification

The Murugappa family, which owns the Murugappa Group, is another prominent name among the richest persons in Tamil Nadu. The Murugappa Group is a diversified conglomerate with interests in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, cycling, fertilizers, and sugar production. The family is also a major player in the dental care industry. The group’s leadership and ability to diversify into various sectors have helped it grow substantially over the years.

By 2021, the Murugappa family's combined wealth was estimated at $4.7 billion. With the strong foundation laid by previous generations, the Murugappa family continues to be a leading force in India’s business landscape. Their impressive portfolio makes them one of the most influential families in Tamil Nadu and a key part of the list of richest persons in Tamil Nadu.

3. Sridhar Vembu: Transforming the Software Landscape

Sridhar Vembu, the founder and CEO of Zoho Corporation, is a key figure in the tech world. He founded Zoho in 2009, and the company has since grown into a global leader in business software and cloud-based solutions. Zoho has served millions of customers across the globe, from small businesses to large enterprises, providing them with a wide range of digital tools for customer relationship management (CRM), analytics, and productivity.

Vembu’s rise to prominence has been closely tied to his unwavering commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, in 2021. With a net worth of $3.75 billion in 2021, he ranks as the 53rd richest Indian. His success story is a testament to the growing prominence of Tamil Nadu as a hub for tech entrepreneurs and innovators, making him a notable figure among the richest persons in Tamil Nadu.

4. Amalgamations Group: A Titan of Engineering

The Amalgamations Group is the largest light engineering conglomerate in India. Headquartered in Chennai, the group operates 41 companies, with TAFE (Tractors and Farm Equipment Limited) being one of its most well-known subsidiaries. TAFE is one of the largest manufacturers of tractors in the world, catering to the needs of farmers across India and beyond.

In 2021, the Amalgamations Group had a net worth of $2.89 billion, making it the 73rd richest entity in India. Under the leadership of businesswoman Mallika Srinivasan, who serves as the Chairman and CEO, the group has expanded its footprint in various sectors, from manufacturing to finance. As a key player in Tamil Nadu's industrial landscape, the Amalgamations Group is a prominent member of the richest persons in Tamil Nadu list.

5. Dr. Maran (Sun Group): A Media Mogul

Dr. Kalanithi Maran, the founder of the Sun Group, is one of Tamil Nadu's most successful media entrepreneurs. The Sun Group operates over 33 television channels and has a significant presence in the Indian media industry. With its reach extending to more than 95 million households across the country, the Sun Group is one of the most influential media conglomerates in India.

As of 2021, Dr. Maran’s net worth was estimated at $2.9 billion, making him the 78th richest person in India. His journey from a small media company to a national powerhouse has made him a key figure among the richest persons in Tamil Nadu. The Sun Group’s impact on Indian media cannot be overstated, and it remains a significant force in the country’s entertainment and information landscape.

Richest Districts in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu is home to several affluent districts that are contributing to the state’s economic prosperity. Among these, Chennai, the capital city, stands out as the richest district in Tamil Nadu, hosting several of the state’s top companies and industries. Other districts such as Coimbatore and Madurai are also noteworthy for their growing economic influence, with Coimbatore being a hub for textiles and engineering industries, while Madurai excels in agriculture and manufacturing.

As the state continues to grow economically, these districts will play an essential role in shaping the future of Tamil Nadu’s wealth distribution.

Conclusion

Tamil Nadu’s contribution to India's wealth is undeniable, with some of the richest persons in Tamil Nadu making significant strides in various sectors. From the tech industry led by Shiv Nadar and Sridhar Vembu to the media empire of Dr. Maran, Tamil Nadu is home to some of the country’s most influential business leaders. With the continued growth of industries such as engineering, media, and IT, the state's wealth and influence are likely to increase in the coming years, further solidifying its position as one of India's richest regions.

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