India Billionaires
Anil Rai Gupta (born 20 April 1969) is Chairman and Managing Director of Havells India, a top-tier electrical equipment company. The elder son of founder Qimat Rai Gupta, Anil studied at St. Xavier’s, Delhi, earned a commerce degree from Shri Ram College of Commerce, and completed an MBA in Marketing and Finance from Wake Forest University, USA.
He joined Havells in 1992, learning under his father's leadership and playing a key role in transforming the company from an industrial supplier to a consumer-focused brand. A major milestone came in 2007 when he led the acquisition of Sylvania, expanding Havells’ global reach.
Following his father’s passing in 2014, Anil took full charge, pushing modernization, innovation, and brand growth. Beyond business, he is a founding trustee of Ashoka University and Plaksha University, underscoring his focus on education and impact.
His leadership has earned him recognitions like the Forbes India Leadership Award (2019) and Best CEO (Consumer Durables) by Business Today.
Timeline
1969: Born in Delhi
1992: Joined Havells India
2003: Drove Havells’ entry into consumer products
2007: Led acquisition of Sylvania (Europe)
2014: Became Chairman & MD after Qimat Rai Gupta’s demise
2016: Published biography of his father
2017: Received Honorary Doctorate from Wake Forest University