What Happened to Hinduja Group Chairman Gopichand Hinduja?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Gopichand Hinduja was a transformative leader in the Hinduja Group.
- The Hinduja family is recognized as the richest in the UK.
- Significant investments include the acquisition of Ashok Leyland.
- The group operates in eleven sectors, showcasing its diversity.
- Family dynamics can impact business decisions and future leadership.
New Delhi, Nov 4 (NationPress) Gopichand P. Hinduja, the Chairman of the Hinduja Group, has sadly passed away in a London hospital at the age of 85.
Affectionately referred to as GP in business circles, he assumed the role of Chairman after the death of his elder brother Srichand in May 2023. He is survived by his wife Sunita, sons Sanjay and Dheeraj, and daughter Rita.
The latest Sunday Times Rich List for 2025 has recognized Gopichand's family as the wealthiest in the UK, boasting a staggering net worth of 32.3 billion pounds.
Joining the family business in 1950, Gopichand is credited with transforming the operation from a modest Indo-Middle Eastern trading firm into a formidable transnational conglomerate. His two brothers, Prakash and Ashok Hinduja, also play significant roles in the group's operations.
A proud graduate of Bombay Jai Hind College, Gopichand held honorary doctorate degrees from the University of Westminster and Richmond College, according to the company’s official website.
The Hinduja Group operates across eleven sectors, including automotive, banking and finance, IT, healthcare, real estate, power, and media. Notable brands under its umbrella include Ashok Leyland, IndusInd Bank, and NXTDIGITAL Limited.
While Prakash Hinduja manages operations in Europe, Ashok Hinduja, the youngest brother, focuses on the group's interests in India.
A landmark decision in 1987 to enter the Indian automobile market by acquiring heavy commercial vehicle manufacturer Ashok Leyland marked the group's flagship entry into the sector. This was considered a pioneering NRI investment in India.
The Hinduja family attracted media attention in 2021 due to a family dispute that escalated to a London courtroom. Srichand Hinduja's daughters Vinoo and Shanu accused their uncles of excluding them from funding and decision-making, while Srichand, known as SP, was battling dementia.
In response to the allegations, Gopichand, Prakash, and Ashok referred to a 2013 agreement among the brothers stating that "everything belongs to everyone and nothing belongs to anyone."