From Rs 30 Per Day To Rs 17,000 Crore Company: Meet Man Who Quit School At 14, His Business Is...

Rajinder Gupta, born to a cotton dealer in Punjab, faced financial hardships early in life. Forced to drop out of school at just 14 years old, he was determined to make something of himself. His first jobs were tough, earning only Rs 30 per day while making candles and cement pipes. This was the start of his entrepreneurial journey, despite the odds stacked against him.

In 1985, Rajinder Gupta took a bold step by investing Rs 6.5 crore to establish Abhishek Industries, a fertilizer factory. Despite the challenges and risks of starting a business with limited resources, this venture marked the beginning of his transformation from a small trader to a business leader. The success of his first major investment laid the foundation for his future ventures.

In 1991, Gupta expanded his business into the textile industry by establishing Katai Mill, which proved to be highly profitable. This success led him to further diversify into paper and chemicals, with new units set up in Punjab and Madhya Pradesh. His ability to diversify into multiple sectors helped him build a strong, well-rounded business empire.

Under Rajinder Gupta’s leadership, Trident Group flourished into a global player, known for its excellence in the textile and paper industries. Trident formed partnerships with retail giants like JCPenney, Walmart, and Luxury and Linen, which helped expand its reach worldwide. Gupta's strategic business moves and focus on quality helped the company dominate key international markets.

(Image Credit: RajinderGupta/ LinkedIn)

Rajinder Gupta’s entrepreneurial success didn’t go unnoticed. In 2007, he was honored with the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian awards, in recognition of his contributions to the business world. By 2022, his wealth exceeded Rs 12,368 crore (around USD 1.5 billion), a testament to his hard work, foresight, and leadership.

In 2022, Rajinder Gupta stepped down from the Board of Directors of Trident Group, citing personal reasons. However, he continues to serve as the Chairman of Trident Limited, the flagship company of the group. His journey from earning Rs 30 a day to building a Rs 17,000 crore empire continues to inspire entrepreneurs worldwide. Gupta’s story is a shining example of how resilience and innovation can turn dreams into reality.

(Image Credit: RajinderGupta/ LinkedIn)

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