India’s financial terrain witnessed a significant shift this year as the Hurun India Rich List 2023 was unveiled, showcasing the nation’s wealthiest individuals. In a surprising turn of events, Reliance Industries Limited Chairman, Mukesh Ambani, has once again claimed the coveted title of India’s richest individual, surpassing Gautam Adani, the Chairman of the Adani Group, who held the top spot in 2022.
This change in rankings was brought about by substantial fluctuations in Gautam Adani’s wealth, mainly due to the impact of the Hindenburg Research report. The findings of this prestigious list, jointly released by Hurun India and 360 ONE Wealth, provide a deep insight into the economic pulse of the country.
According to the report, an astounding 1,319 individuals boast a net worth exceeding Rs 1,000 crore, marking an increase of 219 individuals, including 278 new entrants. Notably, this year’s cumulative wealth of the Hurun India Rich Listers has soared to an impressive Rs 109 lakh crore, surpassing the combined GDP of countries like Singapore, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
However, amidst this growth, the report also indicates a shift in wealth dynamics. While the cumulative wealth on the list increased by 8.5 percent, the average wealth of individuals decreased by 9.3 percent. Among the listees, 1,054 individuals witnessed their wealth grow or remain stable, including 278 newcomers, while 264 individuals saw a decline in their wealth, and 55 individuals dropped out of the list.
The report also highlights a significant rise in the number of billionaires in India, with 259 billionaires recorded, marking an increase of 38 compared to the previous year. Industry-wise, the Industrial Products and Metals & Mining sectors welcomed the highest number of new entrants. Pharma retained its stronghold as the top industry, welcoming 133 new entrants.
Remarkably, the list includes young entrepreneurs like Kaivalya Vohra (20), Founder of Zepto, underscoring the impact of India’s thriving startup ecosystem. With 262 new entrants across 30 industries and 61 cities, the 360 ONE Wealth Hurun India Rich List 2023 paints a picture of a dynamic and diverse economic landscape.
Reflecting on these findings, Yatin Shah, Co-Founder of 360 ONE & Joint CEO of 360 ONE Wealth, emphasized the entrepreneurial spirit in India, with 64 percent of individuals being self-made. Anirudha Taparia, Co-Founder & Joint CEO of 360 ONE Wealth, pointed out the extraordinary wealth growth witnessed by many entrepreneurs, with some experiencing a staggering 1,000 percent surge in wealth.
Anas Rahman Junaid, MD, and Chief Researcher at Hurun India, expressed optimism about India’s economic trajectory, highlighting the nation’s resilience amidst global challenges. He also emphasized the rich legacy of family businesses in India, with 60 percent of the list poised for intergenerational wealth transfer in the next decade.
India’s wealth creation story continues to inspire, with 66 percent of the list being self-made individuals, signifying the nation’s entrepreneurial prowess. As the economic landscape evolves, the Hurun India Rich List 2023 stands as a testament to India’s enduring spirit and its remarkable journey toward prosperity.
Nisham Ismail 
Nithin Rosh