Under his leadership, the Hinduja Group expanded its international footprint and strengthened its reputation as one of India’s most powerful business families. (Photo: Bloomberg)
London, November 4: Indian-origin billionaire businessman and Hinduja Group chairman Gopichand Parmanand Hinduja passed away at the age of 85. The news was confirmed on Tuesday by Tory peer and British House of Lords member Rami Ranger, who described Hinduja as “one of the most gracious, humble, and loyal friends.”
Hinduja was one of the most influential figures in global business and philanthropy. His passing marks the end of an era for the Hinduja family, which has long been at the forefront of business leadership in both India and the United Kingdom.
Born in 1939, Gopichand Hinduja, often referred to as GP Hinduja, was the eldest among the Hinduja brothers who built one of the world’s most diversified business conglomerates — the Hinduja Group. With operations in over 38 countries, the group has major investments across automotive, finance, IT, energy, healthcare, real estate, and media sectors.
Under his leadership, the Hinduja Group expanded its international footprint and strengthened its reputation as one of India’s most powerful business families. Known for his discipline, humility, and visionary leadership, GP Hinduja was respected globally for his contributions to trade, philanthropy, and community development.
Confirming his death, British lawmaker Rami Ranger shared a heartfelt message on social media and issued a public statement mourning the loss.
“Dear friends, with a heavy heart, I share with you the tragic loss of our beloved friend, Mr GP Hinduja, who has departed for his heavenly abode. He was one of the most gracious, humble, and loyal friends. His passing marks the end of an era, as he was truly a well-wisher of the community and a guiding force,” Ranger said in his statement.
Ranger also reflected on his long association with the late industrialist, highlighting his humour, compassion, and strong connection to India.
“I had the privilege of knowing him over many years; his qualities were unique—a tremendous sense of humour, commitment to the community and country, India—and he always supported good causes. He has left a huge vacuum behind that will be difficult to fill. May he rest in peace in heaven. Om Shanti,” Ranger added.
The Hinduja family’s business empire, estimated to be worth over $50 billion, has had a major influence on global trade and Indian entrepreneurship. GP Hinduja, along with his brothers — Srichand, Prakash, and Ashok Hinduja — steered the conglomerate with a balance of tradition and innovation.
The brothers were often listed among the richest families in the UK and globally. Their success story began with their father, Parmanand Deepchand Hinduja, who established the family’s first trading business in Mumbai in 1914 and later expanded to Iran before the group set up its global headquarters in London.
Gopichand Hinduja was particularly known for his hands-on leadership and philanthropic commitments. He was instrumental in several charity initiatives under the Hinduja Foundation, which focuses on education, healthcare, and social welfare across India and abroad.
Following the announcement, tributes poured in from business leaders, politicians, and community members worldwide. Many praised GP Hinduja for being a bridge between India and the West and for his lifelong contributions to strengthening Indo-British relations.
Leaders from both India and the UK remembered him as a symbol of Indian enterprise, humility, and generosity. Social media platforms were flooded with condolences, with many describing him as a “visionary industrialist” and a “pillar of philanthropy.”
With Gopichand Hinduja’s passing, one of the most influential chapters in the Hinduja legacy comes to an end. His vision, humility, and service to society will continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs.
As Rami Ranger aptly put it, “He has left a huge vacuum behind that will be difficult to fill.”
