Shiv Nadar Biography

Shiv Nadar is an Indian entrepreneur and philanthropist known for co-founding HCL Technologies, one of India's largest IT services companies. He was born on July 14, 1945, in Tamil Nadu, India.

Nadar completed his schooling in Tamil Nadu and went on to earn a degree in electrical and electronics engineering from PSG College of Technology in Coimbatore, India. After completing his education, he started his career as a systems analyst at a Delhi-based computer company.

In 1976, Shiv Nadar co-founded HCL (Hindustan Computers Limited) along with a group of friends, including Ajai Chowdhry, Arjun Malhotra, Subhash Arora, and Yogesh Vaidya. HCL initially started as a hardware company, manufacturing and selling personal computers. However, under Nadar's leadership, the company diversified into software services and became a leading IT services provider in India.

Shiv Nadar played a crucial role in shaping HCL's growth and success. He focused on building a culture of entrepreneurship, innovation, and customer-centricity within the company. HCL Technologies went public in 1999 and experienced significant growth, expanding its global presence and acquiring several companies to strengthen its capabilities.

Under Nadar's leadership, HCL Technologies gained recognition for its management philosophy called "Employee First, Customer Second" (EFCS). This approach emphasized the importance of empowering employees and fostering a work culture that prioritized their needs and satisfaction, ultimately leading to better customer service.

Apart from his achievements in the business world, Shiv Nadar is also known for his philanthropic efforts. In 1994, he established the Shiv Nadar Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on transforming education in India. The foundation has established various educational institutions, including the SSN College of Engineering, the Shiv Nadar University, and the VidyaGyan Leadership Academy.

Shiv Nadar has received numerous awards and recognition for his contributions to the IT industry and philanthropy. He was listed among Forbes' billionaires and Forbes' list of the most powerful people in the world. In 2017, he stepped down as the Chairman of HCL Technologies, handing over the position to his daughter Roshni Nadar Malhotra, while he continued to serve as the Chairman Emeritus.

Shiv Nadar's entrepreneurial journey and dedication to education and philanthropy have made him an influential figure in India and globally. His vision and leadership have helped shape the Indian IT industry and inspired many aspiring entrepreneurs.