Azim Premji

Azim Premji was born on July 24th, 1945

Full Name: Azim Premji

Nationality: Indian

Profession: Businessman

Occupation: Philanthropist

Field: IT industry

Bio: Indian businessman

Notable Work: Wipro

Awards: Padma Bhushan

Indian tech mogul and philanthropist who founded Wipro, a multinational IT consulting firm, and donated billions to education and social causes.

Written by:

Thomas Blackwood

Azim Premji: The Czar of Indian IT Industry

Azim Premji, the renowned Indian businessman and philanthropist, is best known for revolutionizing the Indian IT industry through his visionary leadership at Wipro Limited. As the founder chairman, he guided the company through four decades of diversification and growth, transforming it into a global leader in the software industry.

The Early Years and Education

Premji was born on July 24, 1945, in Bombay, India, into an affluent Khoja Ismaili Muslim family from Gujarat. His father, Muhammed Hashim Premji, was a successful businessman known as the "Rice King of Burma." Despite being invited by Muhammad Ali Jinnah to move to Pakistan, Premji's father chose to remain in India.

Premji pursued his Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University, which laid the foundation for his future entrepreneurial ventures.

Rise to Prominence and Achievements

Premji's leadership at Wipro Limited spanned four decades, during which he oversaw the company's transformation from a small vegetable oil company to a global IT giant. Under his guidance, Wipro diversified into various sectors, including IT services, consulting, and business process outsourcing.

His achievements have been recognized globally, with notable accolades including:

Being voted among the 20 most powerful men in the world by Asiaweek in 2010
Featured twice in Time magazine's list of 100 most influential people (2004 and 2011)
Regularly listed among The 500 Most Influential Muslims
Awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, by the Government of India

Philanthropic Contributions

Premji is a dedicated philanthropist, focusing primarily on education in India. In 2013, he pledged to give away at least half of his wealth by signing the Giving Pledge. He has donated over $2.2 billion to the Azim Premji Foundation, which works towards improving education in India.

In recognition of his philanthropic efforts, Premji has been:

Ranked first in the EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List in 2020
Featured in Forbes India's list of top philanthropists

Personal Life and Legacy

Premji is married to Yasmeen Premji, and they have two children, Rishad and Tariq. Rishad Premji is currently the Chairman of Wipro Limited, carrying forward his father's legacy.

With an estimated net worth of over $25 billion, Premji is one of the wealthiest individuals in India. His legacy extends beyond his business achievements, as he has inspired a generation of entrepreneurs and philanthropists in India and beyond.

Trivia and Fun Facts

Premji's father, Muhammed Hashim Premji, was a close friend of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan
Despite being a billionaire, Premji is known for his simplicity and humility, often taking economy-class flights and staying in budget hotels
He has been a strong advocate for social causes, including education and healthcare, and has worked towards bridging the gap between business and philanthropy

Impact and Influence

Azim Premji's contributions have had a profound impact on the Indian IT industry, inspiring a generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders. His philanthropic efforts have improved the education landscape in India, touching the lives of millions of people.

As the Chancellor of Azim Premji University, Bangalore, he continues to shape the future of education in India, leaving a lasting legacy that transcends his business achievements.

Timeline

1945

Born in Bombay

Azim Premji was born in Bombay, British India (now Mumbai, India). He would go on to become a successful Indian businessman and philanthropist.

1966

Joined Wipro

Premji joined Wipro, a small vegetable oil company founded by his father, and transformed it into a global IT giant.

1970

Diversified Wipro

Premji diversified Wipro into various industries, including IT, consulting, and engineering.

2001

Founded Azim Premji Foundation

Premji founded the Azim Premji Foundation, focusing on education and social development in India.

2011

Received Padma Vibhushan Award

Premji received the Padma Vibhushan Award, Indias second-highest civilian honor, for his contributions to trade and commerce.

Azim Premji Quiz

What is Azim Premji's profession?

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FAQ

What is Azim Premjis business empire?

Azim Premji is the founder of Wipro Limited, a multinational information technology consulting and business process outsourcing company. He has built a business empire through his vision and leadership.

What is Azim Premjis philosophy of philanthropy?

Azim Premji is a dedicated philanthropist, with a focus on education and social welfare. He believes in giving back to society and has established the Azim Premji Foundation to support various social causes.

What are Azim Premjis notable awards?

Azim Premji has received several awards and honors for his contributions to business and philanthropy, including the Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan, two of Indias highest civilian honors.

What is Azim Premjis early life and education?

Azim Premji was born in Mumbai, India, and grew up with a passion for business. He pursued higher education in the United States, which laid the foundation for his successful career as an entrepreneur.

What is Azim Premjis current focus?

Azim Premji is currently focused on expanding Wipros business operations and continuing his philanthropic efforts. He remains a highly respected figure in the business and social spheres.

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