The Significance of Breaking Barriers
Recognition in the global list of wealthiest individuals is more than just a marker of financial success—it is a testament to influence, leadership, and strategic business acumen. When an Indian entrepreneur enters the ranks of the world’s richest, it highlights India’s growing economic power and the increasing role of Indian women in global business leadership. Roshni Nadar, Chairperson of HCL Technologies, has now etched her name in history by becoming the first Indian woman to secure a spot among the top 10 wealthiest women in the world. Her journey is not just about wealth but also about perseverance, legacy, and impactful leadership.
Roshni Nadar’s Rise to Billionaire Status
Born in 1982, Roshni Nadar Malhotra is the daughter of Shiv Nadar, the visionary founder of HCL Technologies. Her ascent to billionaire status was solidified when her father transferred a 47% stake in the company to her, placing her among India’s most powerful business leaders. With a net worth of ₹3.5 lakh crore (US$40 billion), she ranks as the fifth wealthiest woman globally, according to the Hurn Global Rich List 2025. This also makes her the third-richest individual in India.
Despite being born into affluence, Roshni Nadar’s journey has been marked by rigorous education and strategic business leadership. She earned a degree in Communications from North-western University, USA, and later completed an MBA from the prestigious Kellogg School of Management. In July 2020, she officially took over as the Chairperson of HCL Technologies, leading the multinational IT giant with a market valuation of $48 billion.
Leadership and Business Acumen
Under Roshni Nadar’s leadership, HCL Technologies has continued its strong global expansion, focusing on digital transformation, cloud computing, and AI-driven innovations. Her strategic vision has ensured HCL remains a formidable competitor in the global tech landscape, maintaining its status as one of India’s leading IT service companies.
Beyond business, she also chairs HCL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Board Committee, reinforcing the company’s commitment to philanthropy and sustainable development. Her passion for social impact extends beyond her corporate responsibilities, making her a prominent figure in global philanthropy.
A Legacy of Philanthropy and Global Influence
Roshni Nadar has consistently used her influence and wealth for philanthropic initiatives. In 2023, she received the Schaffner Award in recognition of her contributions to social causes, including education and environmental conservation. She is actively involved with The Nature Conservancy and serves on the Dean’s Advisory Council at the MIT School of Engineering.
Her work in fostering India’s development has also garnered international acclaim. In 2024, she was honored with France’s highest civilian award, the Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur, recognizing her contributions to business and philanthropy. She also plays a crucial role in strengthening Indo-US relations as a board member of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF).
Other Wealthiest Women in the World
The Hurun Global Rich List 2025 features 561 women, with 224 of them being self-made billionaires. Among the wealthiest women globally, some notable names include:
Alice Walton (USA) – US$102 billion Daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton, Alice Walton has seen a major boost in her wealth due to a significant rise in Walmart’s share price.
Francoise Bettencourt Meyers (France) – US$67 billion The heiress to the L’Oréal empire, Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, continues to be one of the richest women, despite a drop in the cosmetics market.
Julia Koch & Family (USA) – US$60 billion Inherited her fortune from her late husband, David Koch, and continues to grow the Koch Industries empire.
Jacqueline Mars (USA) – US$53 billion Heiress to Mars Inc, benefiting from a booming pet food market and confectionery sales.
Notable Indian Women Recognized for Their Wealth and Influence
Over the years, Indian women have gained global recognition in wealth rankings and leadership positions. Some notable mentions include:
- Savitri Jindal – Former chairperson of the Jindal Group and one of India’s richest women, known for her industrial empire.
- Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw – Founder of Biocon and a leading figure in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries.
- Falguni Nayar – Founder of Nykaa, who became India’s richest self-made woman after the company’s IPO.
A Role Model for Future Generations
Roshni Nadar’s presence among the world’s wealthiest women is a landmark achievement for India. Her journey from inheriting a tech empire to leading it into the future showcases her exceptional leadership, business acumen, and commitment to philanthropy. As India continues to produce influential business leaders, her success story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women looking to break barriers in corporate leadership. With her strategic vision and social impact initiatives, Roshni Nadar is not only a billionaire but also a beacon of progressive leadership and responsible capitalism.
(With inputs from agencies)
