Rajinder Gupta, often referred to as “Punjab’s Dhirubhai Ambani,” epitomizes the story of grit, perseverance, and remarkable entrepreneurial success. From dropping out of school in the ninth grade to becoming one of Punjab’s wealthiest individuals, Gupta’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of hard work and strategic risk-taking. As of June 2023, Forbes estimates his net worth at $1.5 billion, a figure that underscores his significant impact on the Indian business landscape.
Born into a low-income family, Gupta faced significant challenges from a young age. At just 14, he dropped out of school to support his family, marking the beginning of a journey filled with determination and resourcefulness. His early ventures into the world of business were modest—he started by making cement pipes and candles for a meager Rs 30 per day during the 1980s. Despite these humble beginnings, Gupta’s entrepreneurial spirit was undeterred.
In 1985, Gupta founded Abhishek Industries, initially focusing on fertilizer manufacturing. This venture proved successful, laying the foundation for what would become a sprawling conglomerate. By 1991, Gupta had expanded his business horizons, collaborating with another company to establish a spinning mill, further diversifying his business interests.
Gupta’s vision and tenacity led to the formation of the Trident Group, a name now synonymous with excellence in home textiles, paper, and chemical manufacturing. Headquartered in Ludhiana, Punjab, Trident Group has grown into a global powerhouse, exporting to over 150 countries and generating two-thirds of its revenue from international markets. The company’s clientele includes industry giants such as Walmart, JCPenney, and Luxury and Linen. Today, Trident ranks among the top five towel manufacturers worldwide.
Under Gupta’s leadership, the Trident Group flourished. By the time he stepped down from the board in 2022, citing family and health reasons, the conglomerate’s valuation had soared to Rs 17,000 crore.
Gupta was awarded the Padma Shri by the President of India in 2007. His influence extends beyond the business world. He has been appointed Chairman of the Corporate Advisory Board for Trident Limited and serves as Chairman of the Board of Governors for Punjab Engineering College.
Rajinder Gupta’s dedication to his community is evident in his tenure as President of the Punjab Cricket Association from 2017 to 2023, where he played a pivotal role in promoting and developing cricket in the region.
Though Gupta resigned as Chairman of Trident’s Board of Directors in 2022, he continues to influence the company as the group’s ‘Chairman Emeritus.’ His legacy is built on his extraordinary ability to turn modest beginnings into a billion-dollar empire.
