Shiv Nadar: The Visionary Industrialist, Philanthropist, and IT Pioneer

Shiv Nadar is a renowned Indian industrialist, philanthropist, and a key figure in the country’s IT industry. Born on July 14, 1945, in Tamil Nadu, he is the former chairman and co-founder of HCL Technologies Limited, a leading global IT service company. Nadar played a pivotal role in shaping the computing and IT landscape in India.

Nadar’s educational journey began at American College, Madurai, where he earned his pre-university degree. He further pursued his passion for technology, graduating in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from PSG College of Technology. His remarkable career commenced in 1967 at Walchand Group’s Cooper Engineering in Pune. Later, he ventured into entrepreneurship, co-founding ‘Televista’ under the brand name ‘Microcomp’ with colleagues, marking his entry into the business world.

In 1976, Nadar, along with his associates, founded HCL Tech, aiming to manufacture microprocessors and calculators. Under his leadership, HCL Tech grew into a global IT powerhouse. Nadar’s innovative approach and strategic vision catapulted the company to unprecedented success. In July 2020, he passed the baton to his daughter, Roshni Nadar Malhotra, becoming a beacon of succession planning in the business world.

Beyond his contributions to the IT sector, Nadar is the founder and chairman of the Shiv Nadar Foundation, an organization dedicated to education and social development. He established the SSN College of Engineering in Chennai in 1996, honoring his father’s legacy.

Nadar’s philanthropic endeavors have earned him accolades, including the prestigious Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in 2008. He received an honorary doctorate degree from Madras University in 2007 and was recognized as Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2007. Forbes acknowledged his philanthropic impact, naming him one of the ’48 Heroes of Philanthropy in Asia Pacific’ in 2011. His influence extended to politics, landing him a spot on India Today’s ‘India’s 50 Most Powerful People’ list in 2017.

Shiv Nadar’s life story is a testament to his visionary leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to shaping India’s technological future while giving back to society through his philanthropic initiatives.