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Azim Hashim Premji: The Czar of the Indian IT Industry and Philanthropist turns 78 today

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Azim Hashim Premji, an Indian businessman, and philanthropist Born on July 24, 1945, in Bombay, India, to a distinguished Kutchi Indian Muslim Shia Islam family, his father was a renowned businessman known as the “Rice King of Burma.” However, Azim Premji chose a different path and went on to become one of India’s most influential entrepreneurs.

Premji’s journey in the business world began when he took over Western Indian Vegetable Products Ltd., a company dealing in hydrogenated oil manufacturing. Tragedy struck at a young age when he had to leave his engineering studies at Stanford University to take charge of Wipro upon his father’s passing. With determination and foresight, he steered the company towards diversification, exploring various sectors, including bakery fats, toiletries, and lighting products.

Recognizing the potential of the emerging IT sector in the 1980s, Premji made a transformative decision to shift Wipro’s focus from manufacturing soaps to venturing into software and technology. This strategic move allowed Wipro to make its mark in the high-technology domain and become a global leader in the software industry. Under Premji’s guidance, Wipro underwent four decades of diversification and growth, cementing its position as a key player in the IT sector worldwide.

The significant contributions made by Azim Premji to the IT industry have earned him the informal title of the “Czar of the Indian IT Industry.” His visionary leadership and unwavering dedication have not only bolstered Wipro’s success but have also earned him international recognition and accolades.

In 2010, he was ranked among the 20 most powerful men in the world by Asiaweek, further affirming his impact on the global stage. Time magazine also acknowledged his influence, listing him among the 100 most influential people in 2004 and 2011. Additionally, he consistently appears on The 500 Most Influential Muslims list for his contributions to society.

A Philanthropic Legacy: Giving Back to Society and Education

Azim Premji’s success in the business realm is complemented by his profound commitment to philanthropy and social causes. With a net worth estimated at billions of dollars, Premji decided to use his wealth to make a positive difference in society.

In 2013, he signed the Giving Pledge, pledging to give away at least half of his wealth for philanthropic purposes. True to his promise, he established the Azim Premji Foundation, which focuses on transforming education in India. With an initial donation of $2.2 billion, the foundation has been dedicated to improving the quality of education and creating sustainable solutions for societal challenges.

The impact of his philanthropy extends beyond education. He has been actively involved in various social initiatives, helping marginalized communities and promoting sustainable development.

In recognition of his remarkable philanthropic efforts, Azim Premji topped the EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List for 2020. Despite donating a substantial amount of his wealth, he remains committed to continuing his philanthropic journey and making a lasting impact on the lives of millions.

Conclusion

Azim Hashim Premji’s journey from a young entrepreneur taking over his father’s business to becoming a global IT industry leader and philanthropist is truly inspirational. Through his strategic vision, dedication, and compassion, he has not only transformed Wipro into a technological powerhouse but also positively impacted the lives of countless individuals through his philanthropic endeavors. As he continues to shape the future of education and uplift society, Azim Premji’s legacy will forever be remembered as a beacon of progress and social change.

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