In 2023, Forbes magazine showcased a remarkable surge in Indian billionaires, with a total of 169 entrepreneurs, businessmen, and women making their mark on the annual list of World Billionaires. The distinguished trio of Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adani, and Dilip Shanghvi claimed the top spots as the wealthiest Indians globally.

Among the notable names were individuals from diverse sectors, from the heirs of established conglomerates to self-made entrepreneurs. Here are seven Indians who secured a spot on the coveted billionaire list in 2023.

Ashwin Desai:

Joining the billionaire’s club, Ashwin Desai’s company, Aether, went public in June 2022, raising $103 million and listing shares at a 10 percent premium. The 72-year-old entrepreneur founded Aether in 2013, specializing in supplying chemicals to the agrochemical, pharmaceutical, and oil and gas industries. Forbes real-time data reports Desai’s net worth at $1 billion (Rs 8,338 crores).

Nithin and Nikhil Kamath:

Brothers Nithin and Nikhil Kamath made their mark with Zerodha, a low-cost brokerage services firm founded in 2010. Boasting over 12 million clients, Nithin Kamath, the CEO, holds a net worth of $2.7 billion (Rs 22,513 crores), while Nikhil, also known for his podcast “WTF is with Nikhil Kamath,” is valued at $1.1 billion (Rs 9,172 crores).

Abhay Soi:

As the chairman of Max Healthcare Institute, Abhay Soi successfully steered India’s second-largest listed hospital chain through a merger with Radiant Life Care during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Forbes recognizes his net worth at $1.9 billion (Rs 15,842 crores), and his impactful leadership earned him the Entrepreneur of the Year title at the Forbes India Leadership Awards in 2023.

Manohar Lal Agarwal:

The entrepreneur behind the iconic Haldiram’s snacks, Manohar Lal Agarwal, has propelled the company to new heights. With a net worth now standing at $1 billion (Rs 8,338 crores), Haldiram’s remains a staple in Indian households since its modest beginnings in 1937.

Rajiv Jain:

Founder, chairman, and chief investment officer of GQG Partners, Rajiv Jain played a pivotal role in the Adani Group’s financial endeavors, raising Rs 15,446 crore through share sales. His strategic investments, including a substantial $93 billion in Patanjali Foods, contribute to his current net worth of $3.2 billion (Rs 26,683 crores).

Rekha Jhunjhunwala:

Inheriting her husband Rakesh Jhunjhunwala’s valuable stock portfolio, Rekha Jhunjhunwala oversees holdings in Titan Company and Tata Motors. With a current net worth of $7.6 billion (Rs 63,375 crores), she continues to navigate the financial landscape following the passing of the renowned investor in 2022.

These seven individuals represent the diverse and dynamic landscape of India’s billionaire class in 2023, showcasing the country’s economic prowess and the entrepreneurial spirit that defines its success stories.