Winning Bizness Desk
Mumbai. Mukesh Ambani, the Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries, stands as the wealthiest individual in India and Asia. His family, too, shares this immense fortune, with Mukesh Ambani and other family members holding a significant 50.33% stake in Reliance Industries. This ownership is the cornerstone of their wealth, making the Ambani family the richest in Asia. As per Forbes, Mukesh Ambani's net worth is a staggering $113.5 billion. In the financial year 2023-24 alone, the Ambani family earned an impressive ₹3,322.7 crore in dividends from Reliance Industries.
Mukesh Ambani’s Unique Approach to Salary
Despite his towering wealth, Mukesh Ambani has not drawn a salary from Reliance Industries for the past four years. This decision, taken during the Covid-19 pandemic, reflects his commitment to the company during challenging times. However, Mukesh Ambani does receive funds from the company to cover various expenses, including travel, accommodation, cars, communication, and food. These expenses are not limited to him alone but extend to his wife and support staff as well. Additionally, Reliance Industries bears the entire cost of the Ambani family’s security, ensuring their safety in all circumstances.
Nita Ambani’s Earnings and Contributions
Nita Ambani, Mukesh Ambani's wife, plays a significant role within the Reliance empire. She serves as the Chairperson and Managing Director of Reliance Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the conglomerate. Until August 2023, she was also a non-executive director on the board of Reliance Industries. For her contributions in the financial year 2023-24, Nita Ambani was compensated with ₹2 lakh as a sitting fee and ₹97 lakh as a commission. Her involvement in both business and philanthropy underscores the integral role she plays in the family’s legacy.
The Next Generation: Akash, Isha, and Anant Ambani
Mukesh and Nita Ambani's children—Akash, Isha, and Anant—are not just heirs to a fortune but active leaders within the Reliance Group. Akash Ambani, the eldest son, is the Chairman of Reliance Jio Infocomm, the telecom arm that revolutionized India’s digital landscape. Isha Ambani, their daughter, is the Managing Director of Reliance Retail and also serves on the board of Jio Infocomm, overseeing the retail giant's expansive operations. Anant Ambani, the youngest, holds several key positions as Director of Jio Platforms, Reliance Retail, Reliance New Energy, and Reliance New Solar Energy. Each of them draws a salary for their roles, contributing to the family's wealth while steering the future of the conglomerate.
A Legacy of Wealth and Leadership
The Ambani family’s earnings are a testament to their strategic investments and leadership within Reliance Industries. From Mukesh Ambani’s decision to forgo a salary to the next generation’s active involvement in the company, the family’s wealth is deeply intertwined with the success of Reliance. Their combined efforts not only secure their financial legacy but also shape the economic landscape of India and beyond.
