Hinduja family timeline: From Shikarpur traders to global billionaires

Dubai: For more than a century, the Hinduja family has built one of the world’s most influential business empires — a journey defined by ambition, adaptability, and unity.

From its origins in pre-partition India to its rise as a global conglomerate spanning energy, finance, and industry, the dynasty’s story mirrors the evolution of modern enterprise itself. Here’s how the Hinduja legacy unfolded through the decades:

1914 – The Beginning

Parmanand Deepchand Hinduja establishes a trading venture in Shikarpur (now in Pakistan), dealing in carpets, textiles, tea, and spices.

1919 – Expansion to Iran

The family builds a major trading base in Iran, marking the start of its international operations.

1971 – New Generation Takes Over

After Parmanand’s death, his four sons — Srichand, Gopichand, Prakash, and Ashok — assume control of the business, steering it into modern industries.

1979 – Move to London

The Iranian Revolution forces the family to relocate its headquarters to London, setting the stage for global diversification.

1984 – Entry into Energy

Acquisition of Gulf Oil International gives the group a strong foothold in the global energy market.

1987 – Automotive Expansion

The purchase of Ashok Leyland transforms the group into a major player in India’s transport and manufacturing sector.

1993 – Banking Breakthrough

Launch of IndusInd Bank, signaling the group’s commitment to India’s liberalising economy.

2014 – “Four Bodies, One Soul”

The four brothers formalise their philosophy of shared control, signing a letter stating that “everything belongs to everyone, and nothing belongs to anyone.”

2020 – Legal Rift Emerges

Vinoo Hinduja, daughter of the late Srichand Hinduja, challenges the 2014 letter in a London court, questioning the group’s collective ownership model.

2023 – Reconciliation and Renewal

The family announces a settlement ending years of legal disputes, reaffirming unity and joint leadership. The group expands further — securing regulatory approval to acquire Reliance Capital and a 60% stake in Invesco Asset Management India.

2025 – Leadership Crossroads

With Gopichand Hinduja’s passing, succession passes to Prakash and Ashok Hinduja, as the third generation steps into larger roles across the family’s $15 billion global empire.