![]() Gautam Adani |
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Full Name | Gautam Shantilal Adani |
Born | 24 June 1962 (Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India) |
Nationality | Indian |
Occupation(s) | Industrialist, Businessman |
Years Active | 1981–Present |
Known For | Founder & Chairman of Adani Group |
Awards | EY Entrepreneur of the Year (2007) |
Notable Works | Adani Ports, Adani Green Energy, Adani Power |
Spouse | Priti Adani |
Children | Karan Adani, Jeet Adani |
Website | adani.com |
Gautam Adani was born into a Gujarati Jain family in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. His father, Shantilal Adani, was a small textile merchant. Gautam attended Sheth Chimanlal Nagindas Vidyalaya in Ahmedabad and later enrolled at Gujarat University for a Bachelor of Commerce degree but dropped out in his second year to pursue business interests.
Career
Adani began his career in 1978 working for Mahendra Brothers as a diamond sorter in Mumbai. In 1981, he returned to Ahmedabad to manage a plastics unit for his brother, marking his entry into global trading. He founded Adani Exports (now Adani Enterprises) in 1988, focusing on agricultural and power commodities. The Adani Group expanded into various sectors, including ports, energy, logistics, and infrastructure, becoming one of India’s largest conglomerates. Notably, the group developed Mundra Port, India’s largest commercial port.
Challenges & Turning Points
Gautam Adani’s entrepreneurial journey has not been without hurdles. From navigating India’s evolving regulatory landscape to global market volatility, Adani has faced significant tests. In 2023, the Adani Group dealt with a sharp market reaction following a critical report, which brought intense international scrutiny. However, the group responded with transparency, reassured investors, and remained focused on long-term infrastructure and green energy goals. These events became key inflection points in Adani’s career, showcasing both the resilience of the group and his leadership under pressure.
Personal Life
Gautam Adani is married to Dr. Priti Adani, a dentist and chairperson of the Adani Foundation, which focuses on education, healthcare, and community development. They have two sons, Karan and Jeet, who are involved in the Adani Group’s operations. Despite his wealth, Adani is known for maintaining a low public profile.
References
Forbes Profile – Gautam Adani
Adani Group Official Website
NDTV Report – Adani & Hindenburg
Business Standard – Career Journey
The Economic Times – Net Worth & Business