While the stock market can seem daunting and risky to newcomers, several of India’s wealthiest individuals have built their fortunes through savvy investments. From Radhakishan Damani, known as the Retail King of India, to Rekha Jhunjhunwala, one of the nation’s leading women investors, here’s a look at some of the richest Indians who have amassed substantial wealth through stock investments.
1. Radhakishan Damani
Net Worth: $21.5 billion
Key Holdings: The billionaire investor and founder of DMart, Radhakishan Damani, is a prominent figure in the Indian stock market. His publicly disclosed holdings span six stocks and contribute significantly to his vast wealth.
2. Rekha Jhunjhunwala
Net Worth: $8.3 billion (Rs 69,178 crore)
Key Holdings: Titan Company (Rs 18,062 crore), Tata Motors (Rs 5,535 crore), Metro Brands (Rs 2,961 crore), Canara Bank (Rs 2,248 crore), NCC (Rs 2,123 crore)
Background: Following the footsteps of her late husband, Rakesh Jhunjhunwala—often referred to as India’s Warren Buffett—Rekha Jhunjhunwala has become a leading investor in her own right. Together with her husband, she co-founded the private stock trading firm Rare Enterprises, named from the initials of their first names.
3. Hemendra Kothari
Notable Holdings: Alkyl Amines Chemicals, Sonata Software, Veranda Learning Solutions, EIH Associated Hotels
Background: A veteran Mumbai-based investor, Hemendra Kothari has a diverse and robust investment portfolio. His daughter, Aditi Kothari Desai, currently serves as the vice chairperson of the firm. Kothari is also a passionate wildlife conservationist and founded the Wildlife Conservation Trust in 2002.
4. Raamdeo Agrawal
Net Worth: $1.6 billion (Rs 13,331 crore)
Key Holdings: Motilal Oswal Financial Services, Maharashtra Scooters, Bharat Wire Ropes
Background: As the co-founder of the Motilal Oswal Group, Raamdeo Agrawal has been a significant figure in the Indian stock market for over three decades, favoring long-term investment strategies.
5. Akash Bhanshali
Key Holdings: Titagarh Rail Systems, Parag Milk Foods, IDFC, Welspun Corp, Shilpa Medicare, Pan Electronics India
Background: Principal Owner of Enam Group and son of its co-founder Manek Bhanshali, Akash Bhanshali has carved out his own reputation in the stock market. He holds about 21 stocks publicly, with his recent acquisition being a stake in Pan Electronics India.
6. Ashish Dhawan
Key Holdings: Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Ltd (Rs 384.9 crore), Equitas Small Finance Bank Ltd (Rs 402.1 crore), Quess Corp Ltd (Rs 367.9 crore)
Background: Co-founder of Chrysalis Capital, a leading private equity firm, Ashish Dhawan is known both as a top investor and philanthropist in India. His portfolio spans about 15 companies, demonstrating his diverse investment strategy.
These individuals illustrate that with strategic and informed investments, significant wealth can be generated from the stock market.
