Dhirubhai Ambani (28 December 1932 – 6 July 2002) also known as Dhirajlal Hirachand Ambani, was an Indian industrialist who founded Reliance Industries, giant petrochemical, communications, power, and textiles conglomerate that was the biggest exporter in India and the first privately owned Indian company in the Fortune 500.
He had only studied till the tenth standard, but based on his determination, he established his own huge trading and industrial empire. In just three decades, he transformed his small business into a huge industrial company.
Early Life And Education
Dhirubhai Ambani was born on December 28, 1932, in the small village of Chorwad in Gujarat, India. He was one of five children in a modest family; his father, Hirachand Gordhanbhai Ambani, was a schoolteacher, and his mother, Jamnaben Ambani, was a homemaker. Dhirubhai attended Bahadur Khanji School but left formal education early to support his family. At the age of 17, he moved to Aden (now in Yemen) to work as a clerk at A. Besse & Co., where he gained valuable business experience. This early exposure to the business world laid the foundation for his future success as the founder of Reliance Industries.
Career And Achievements
Dhirubhai Ambani career began humbly as a clerk at A. Besse & Co. in Aden, where he learned essential business skills. In 1958, he returned to India and started Reliance Commercial Corporation, initially trading in spices and later expanding into synthetic textiles with the establishment of the first Reliance textile mill in 1966. Ambani’s strategic vision led to the diversification of Reliance into petrochemicals, plastics, and power generation. In 1977, he took Reliance public, making it the first privately owned Indian company to enter the Fortune 500 list. His innovative approach introduced the stock market to the average Indian investor, significantly impacting India’s economic landscape.
Throughout his career, Ambani received numerous accolades. He was posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2016, India’s second-highest civilian honor. Other notable recognitions include the Man of the Century award by Chemtech Foundation, the Lifetime Achievement Award for Corporate Excellence from The Economic Times, and the Indian Entrepreneur of the 20th Century by FICCI. His legacy continues to inspire entrepreneurs worldwide.
Notable Events And Milestones
Dhirubhai Ambani’s life was marked by several significant events and milestones that shaped his legacy. He returned to India and founded Reliance Commercial Corporation, initially focusing on the spice trade. Recognizing the potential in the polyester market, he established Reliance Industries in 1966, which grew into a massive conglomerate spanning petrochemicals, textiles, and telecommunications. In 1977, he took Reliance public, revolutionizing the Indian stock market by attracting a large number of retail investors. His entrepreneurial journey was recognized posthumously with the Padma Vibhushan in 2016.
Dhirubhai Ambani’s impact on history is profound. He democratized the stock market in India, making it accessible to the average investor and fostering an equity culture. His business strategies and vision led to the creation of millions of jobs, significantly contributing to India’s economic growth. Beyond business, he was committed to social causes, supporting various philanthropic initiatives through the Reliance Foundation. His legacy continues to influence India’s industrial landscape and inspire future generations of entrepreneurs. He died on 6 July 2002 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
Awards And Honors
Dhirubhai Ambani, the founder of Reliance Industries, received numerous prestigious awards and honors throughout his life. Here are some notable ones:
- **Padma Vibhushan**: India’s second-highest civilian award, conferred posthumously in 2016 for his contributions to trade and industry.
- **Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award**: Recognized for his outstanding contributions to entrepreneurship.
- **Lifetime Achievement Award**: Presented by The Economic Times for his significant impact on the business world.
- **Man of the Century**: Awarded by the Chemtech Foundation and Chemical Engineering World for his remarkable achievements in the industry.
- **Indian Entrepreneur of the 20th Century**: Conferred by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI).
- **Greatest Creator of Wealth in the Centuries**: Declared by a poll conducted by The Times of India in 2000.
These accolades highlight his immense influence and legacy in the business world.
Additional Resources
To learn more about Dhirubhai Ambani, here are some excellent resources:
Books
- **The Polyester Prince: The Rise of Dhirubhai Ambani** by Hamish McDonald – This unauthorized biography provides an in-depth look at Ambani’s life and the rise of Reliance Industries.
- **Dhirubhai Ambani: A Complete Biography** by N. Chokkan – This book offers a comprehensive overview of Ambani’s life, his business strategies, and his impact on India’s economy.
Documentaries
- **The Story of Dhirubhai H. Ambani** – A short documentary available on YouTube that covers Ambani’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a business tycoon.
- **Dhirubhai Ambani Biography in Hindi** – This detailed biography in Hindi provides insights into Ambani’s life and achievements.
- **The Most Powerful Family in India: Rise of The Ambanis** – This documentary explores the Ambani family’s rise to prominence, focusing on Dhirubhai Ambani’s legacy.
Museums
- **Dhirubhai Ambani Memorial House** – Located in Chorwad, Gujarat, this memorial and museum is dedicated to Dhirubhai Ambani. It offers a glimpse into his early life and the legacy he left behind.
These resources should provide a well-rounded understanding of Dhirubhai Ambani’s life, his business acumen, and his lasting impact on India’s industrial landscape.
