Discover the inspiring journey of Mukesh Ambani, India’s richest man and Reliance Industries’ driving force. Learn how he reshaped telecom, retail, and more.
Early Life and Education
Mukesh Dhirubhai Ambani was born on April 19, 1957, in Aden, Yemen. He is the eldest son of legendary businessman Dhirubhai Ambani and Kokilaben Ambani. The family moved to India in 1958, where Dhirubhai laid the foundation of Reliance Commercial Corporation.
Mukesh grew up in Mumbai and studied at Hill Grange High School. Later, he completed his BE in Chemical Engineering from the Institute of Chemical Technology. He then enrolled for an MBA at Stanford University but returned to India in 1981 to assist his father in building Reliance.
He did not just follow his father’s footsteps—he expanded them. He transformed Reliance from a textiles company into a massive industrial empire. He ventured into petrochemicals, refining, oil, gas, and telecom, establishing the group as one of India’s most powerful corporate entities.
Career and Achievements
In 1981, Mukesh officially joined Reliance Industries. He spearheaded the construction of the world’s largest grassroots petroleum refinery at Jamnagar, Gujarat. Not only did it become the heart of Reliance’s operations, but it also placed India on the global oil map.
Then came the revolution in telecommunications. In 2016, Mukesh launched Jio, changing the face of digital India. It offered affordable data, free voice calls, and pushed India into the top ranks of mobile internet consumption.
Then came the wave of retail expansion. Then came the strategic partnerships with global tech giants like Facebook and Google.
Reliance Retail also rose to become one of the largest retail chains in India under his guidance. His diversification into digital services, e-commerce, and green energy proves his futuristic approach to business.
Personal Life
Mukesh is married to Nita Ambani, a philanthropist and businesswoman. Together, they have three children – Akash, Isha, and Anant. The family resides in Antilia, one of the most expensive private residences in the world.
He leads a simple lifestyle despite his immense wealth. He is a vegetarian, enjoys Bollywood films, and has a passion for cricket. He also owns the Mumbai Indians team in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Leadership Style and Vision
Mukesh Ambani is known for his sharp vision, risk-taking ability, and focus on innovation. He believes in empowering youth and digital transformation. He doesn’t shy away from competition—he welcomes it. He doesn’t hesitate to disrupt markets—he thrives on it. He doesn’t settle—he reinvents.
He once said, “Data is the new oil,” and he built a digital ecosystem around that vision. His push for 5G, e-commerce, and clean energy solutions shows his commitment to building a stronger and more sustainable India.
Awards and Recognition
- Included in Forbes’ list of the world’s most powerful people
- Featured in Time magazine’s list of 100 most influential people
- Awarded the Othmer Gold Medal for outstanding contributions to science and chemistry
- Consistently ranked as Asia’s richest man and among the top 10 globally by net worth
Legacy and Future
Mukesh Ambani is more than just a businessman—he’s a builder of dreams. He is grooming the next generation to take Reliance forward. Isha and Akash are actively leading major businesses, while Anant is taking charge of the energy sector.
He has created value not only for shareholders but for India as a nation. He continues to push boundaries, making his mark across telecom, tech, retail, and sustainability.
He is not just writing a story—he is crafting a legacy. He is not just leading a company—he is shaping a country. He is not just wealthy—he is impactful.