The list highlights a shift toward legacy giving, with a growing number of business leaders dedicating over Rs 100 crore annually to causes from education to community welfare.
By PC Bureau
Indian philanthropists set a new record in FY24, donating a staggering Rs 8,783 crore. This marks a 4% increase from the previous year and a significant 55% jump from FY22, as highlighted in the EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2024.
Shiv Nadar: The Most Generous Indian
Shiv Nadar again topped the list as India’s most generous individual, donating a remarkable Rs 2,153 crore. This accounted for nearly a quarter of the total contributions from the 203 business figures on Hurun’s list. Mukesh Ambani and Rohini Nilekani followed closely with donations of Rs 407 crore and Rs 154 crore, respectively.
New Entrants and Rising Stars
Krishna Chivukula, a newcomer to the list, made a significant impact with a Rs 228 crore donation to IIT Madras. Zerodha founders Nithin and Nikhil Kamath, along with Susmita and Subroto Bagchi, also joined the top ten philanthropists this year.
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A Growing Philanthropic Community
The number of Indian philanthropists donating over Rs 100 crore annually has surged from two in 2018 to 18 in 2024. Nandan Nilekani led the list for the largest year-on-year increase, while Harish Shah and the Signet Excipients family climbed 53 spots to secure the 22nd position.
A Diverse Landscape of Giving
Anas Rahman Junaid, founder of Hurun, noted the diverse nature of Indian philanthropy. From first-generation entrepreneurs like Shiv Nadar and Adani to legacy family businesses and tech titans like Nandan Nilekani and Subroto Bagchi, a wide range of individuals are making significant contributions to society.
Hurun’s annual list is compiled through extensive research, including surveys, media analysis, and data from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. It provides a comprehensive overview of how India’s business elite are shaping the nation’s philanthropic landscape.
