India Billionaires
Nusli Wadia, born in 1944, is chairman of Bombay Dyeing and Britannia Industries, and one of India’s most seasoned industrialists. A Cambridge graduate and scion of the 282-year-old Wadia family, he took over Bombay Dyeing during the 1970s, modernizing operations and fighting off hostile takeovers. Wadia restructured Britannia, turning it into India’s leading bakery and biscuit company. He also built GoAir (now Go First), adding aviation to the group’s portfolio. Known for fierce independence, corporate governance, and philanthropy, Wadia supports education, health, and urban renewal projects. His family remains actively involved in business. With decades of stewardship, he is recognized as a reformist industrialist, repeatedly honored for leadership, governance, and his contributions to India’s business landscape.
Timeline
1962: Joins Bombay Dyeing.
1977: Becomes Chairman; modernizes operations.
1990s: Revives Britannia as India’s top bakery and biscuit brand.
2000s: Launches GoAir (later Go First).
2020s: Continues leading Wadia Group across textiles, FMCG, and aviation.
