Gopichand Hinduja, chairman of the Hinduja Group and Britain’s richest businessman, dies at 85. His legacy reshaped global Indian enterprise.
Gopichand Hinduja: Visionary Hinduja Group Chairman Passes Away at 85
TheInterviewTimes.com | London | November4, 2025 — Gopichand Hinduja, the respected chairman of the multinational Hinduja Group and one of Britain’s wealthiest industrialists, passed away at the age of 85 in a London hospital after a prolonged illness. Fondly known as “GP” among business peers, he became chairman in May 2023 after the death of his elder brother, Srichand Hinduja, and went on to strengthen the century-old family empire into one of the most influential conglomerates in the world.
Gopichand Hinduja’s Leadership and Global Vision
Under Gopichand Hinduja’s leadership, the Hinduja Group expanded its global footprint across 38 countries and employed over 200,000 people worldwide. The conglomerate operates in diverse sectors including automotive, banking, energy, media, and real estate.
Some of the group’s major companies include Ashok Leyland, one of India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturers; IndusInd Bank; Gulf Oil Lubricants India; and Hinduja Global Solutions. His tenure saw strategic acquisitions such as Gulf Oil in 1984 and Ashok Leyland in 1987, both of which became cornerstones of the Hinduja empire.
In 2025, the Hinduja family retained its position as the richest in the United Kingdom, with an estimated net worth of £35.3 billion, according to the Sunday Times Rich List.
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From Mumbai Roots to Global Business Powerhouse
Gopichand Hinduja joined the family business in 1959 in Mumbai. Initially involved in trading and finance between India and the Middle East, he envisioned expanding the enterprise into global markets. His efforts transformed the Hinduja Group from a regional trading house into a multi-industry powerhouse spanning banking, energy, infrastructure, and information technology.
Throughout his six-decade-long career, Gopichand was known for his disciplined business ethics, focus on family unity, and strategic foresight that helped the group navigate economic shifts and global recessions. His leadership symbolized the evolution of Indian-origin businesses on the world stage.
Family Legacy and Succession Challenges
Gopichand Hinduja is survived by his wife Sunita, sons Sanjay and Dheeraj, and daughter Rita. With his passing, the Hinduja Group faces a new chapter in its succession story. The group, founded in 1914 by Parmanand Deepchand Hinduja, has long upheld the family motto: “Work to give.”
The remaining brothers — Prakash Hinduja and Ashok Hinduja — continue to oversee major parts of the business. Despite internal family disputes and legal complexities in recent years, the Hindujas have maintained a unified structure without dividing the group’s assets, keeping the century-old family philosophy intact.
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Gopichand Hinduja’s Lasting Legacy
The death of Gopichand Hinduja marks the end of an era for one of the most globally recognized Indian business dynasties. His contributions extended beyond commerce — he was also a strong advocate for philanthropy, education, and Indo-UK economic relations.
Business leaders and dignitaries across the world have paid tribute to his vision and leadership. Analysts note that Gopichand Hinduja’s legacy will continue to influence generations of entrepreneurs who look to balance traditional values with global ambition.
His strategic foresight, ethical grounding, and relentless commitment to innovation made him a defining figure in international business. For millions of Indians abroad, Gopichand Hinduja symbolized success born of integrity, resilience, and family unity — values that continue to define the Hinduja Group today.
Conclusion
As the world mourns the passing of Gopichand Hinduja, his story remains a testament to the power of vision and perseverance. From Mumbai’s trading lanes to London’s business elite, he built not just an empire, but an enduring legacy of trust and leadership that continues to inspire the global business community.