Harsh Mariwala

$3.82 B

Ranked #1092 in World

About Harsh Mariwala

Indian business magnate Harsh Mariwala, leading Marico — a Fortune India 500 FMCG giant — embarked on his career journey at Bombay Oil Industries in 1971. Expanding into 25 countries, Mariwala also launched Kaya Limited and several foundations aimed at nurturing innovation and supporting mental health. With Marico's remarkable brand portfolio, including Saffola and Parachute, the company went public in 1996. An Ernst & Young award recipient, Mariwala promotes entrepreneurship and invests through Sharrp Ventures.

Born

May 14, 1951

Age

74 years

Source Of Wealth

Consumer Goods

Industries

Food & Beverage

Citizenship

India

Residence

Mumbai

Education

Bachelor of Arts/Science, University of Mumbai

Harsh Mariwala, the renowned Indian entrepreneur and founder of Marico, was born into a business-oriented family. His grandfather, Vallabhdas Vasanji, migrated from Kutch to Mumbai in 1862 and became known as "Mariwala" due to his successful pepper dealings. Harsh's father, Charandas, co-founded Bombay Oil Industries Limited in 1948, laying the foundation for the family's entrepreneurial legacy.

Harsh Mariwala received his education at Sydenham College in Mumbai before joining the family business in 1971. This marked the beginning of his illustrious career in the world of business and entrepreneurship.

Harsh Mariwala: Family

Harsh Mariwala is married to Archana, and together they have two children: Rajvi (daughter) and Rishabh (son). Both of his children were involved in the family business before branching out on their own paths.

Harsh Mariwala is known for his commitment to vegetarianism and his passion for fitness. He engages in daily workouts and enjoys activities such as golf, squash, swimming, fencing, and trekking, demonstrating his dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Harsh Mariwala: Career Highlights

Harsh Mariwala's career took off in 1971 when he joined Bombay Oil Industries, a family-controlled business. He faced initial challenges in recruiting talent due to the office's location in Masjid Bunder, but his determination and innovative mindset propelled him forward.

In 1990, Harsh Mariwala founded Marico, a fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) manufacturer and distributor that operates in 25 countries across Asia and Africa. Under his leadership, Marico focused on innovation, brand building, and establishing a positive company culture, leading to its remarkable success.

Harsh Mariwala's entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there. He went on to establish Kaya Limited (skin care clinics), Ascent Foundation (entrepreneurial platform), Marico Innovation Foundation (innovation nurturing), Mariwala Health Initiative (mental health support), and Sharp Ventures (family office), demonstrating his diverse interests and commitment to various sectors.

Harsh Mariwala: Companies

Harsh Mariwala is the founder and Chairman of Marico, a leading FMCG company in India.

Marico has a strong presence in the personal care, food, and beverage industries, with major brands including Saffola, Parachute, Hair & Care, Nihar, Livon, Set Wet, Mediker, and Revive.

In addition to Marico, Harsh Mariwala has founded several other companies, including Kaya Limited, Ascent Foundation, Marico Innovation Foundation, Mariwala Health Initiative, and Sharp Ventures. These companies reflect his diverse interests and commitment to entrepreneurship, innovation, and social responsibility.

Harsh Mariwala: Major Achievements

Harsh Mariwala's entrepreneurial journey is marked by several major achievements. He successfully led Marico's initial public offering in 1996, making it a publicly traded company. In 2006, he acquired Nihar from Hindustan Unilever, and in 2016, he acquired Set Wet, Livon, and Zatak from Reckitt Benckiser, further expanding Marico's portfolio of consumer brands.

Harsh Mariwala's contributions to the business world have been widely recognized. He received the prestigious Ernst & Young 'Entrepreneur of the Year' Award in 2009 and the Ernst & Young World ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ Award in 2020. In 2022, he was honored with the AIMA Life Time Achievement Award, a testament to his remarkable achievements and lasting impact on the business landscape.

Harsh Mariwala: Awards & Achievements

Harsh Mariwala's exceptional contributions to entrepreneurship and social responsibility have been recognized through numerous awards and accolades. Some of his notable awards include:

2009: Ernst & Young 'Entrepreneur of the Year' Award
2020: Ernst & Young World ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ Award
2022: AIMA Life Time Achievement Award

Harsh Mariwala: Personal Life & Legacy

Harsh Mariwala's personal life is marked by his commitment to family, fitness, and social responsibility. He is married to Archana, and they have two children: Rajvi (daughter) and Rishabh (son). Both of his children were involved in the family business before branching out on their own paths.

Harsh Mariwala is a dedicated vegetarian and an avid fitness enthusiast. He engages in daily workouts and enjoys activities such as golf, squash, swimming, fencing, and trekking, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Harsh Mariwala's legacy extends beyond his business achievements.

He is known for his philanthropic efforts and his commitment to social responsibility. Through the Marico Innovation Foundation, Ascent Foundation, and Mariwala Health Initiative, he has made significant contributions to supporting entrepreneurs, promoting mental health awareness, and fostering innovation.

Harsh Mariwala: Trivia

Here are some interesting facts about Harsh Mariwala:

Harsh Mariwala is a voracious reader and enjoys books on a wide range of topics, including business, history, and philosophy.
He is a strong advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken openly about his own struggles with depression.
Harsh Mariwala is passionate about wildlife conservation and has supported various initiatives to protect endangered species.
He is a patron of the arts and has supported several cultural and artistic initiatives in India.

Wealth History

Timeline

1862

Harsh Mariwala's grandfather, Vallabhdas Vasanji, migrates from Kutch to Mumbai and becomes known as "Mariwala" due to his pepper dealings.

1948

Harsh Mariwala's father, Charandas, co-founds Bombay Oil Industries Limited.

1971

Harsh Mariwala begins his career at Bombay Oil Industries, a family-controlled business.

1990

Harsh Mariwala founds Marico, a fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) manufacturer and distributor operating in 25 countries across Asia and Africa.

1996

Marico goes public with an initial public offering.

Late 1990s

Marico makes its first international expansion with a manufacturing plant in Bangladesh.

2003

Harsh Mariwala founds the Marico Innovation Foundation (MIF) for mentoring and supporting start-ups.

2006

Marico acquires Nihar from Hindustan Unilever.

2009

Harsh Mariwala receives the Ernst & Young 'Entrepreneur of the Year' Award.

2012

Harsh Mariwala establishes Ascent Foundation as a peer learning platform for entrepreneurs.

2014

Harsh Mariwala founds the Mariwala Health Initiative (MHI), focused on mental health issues.

2016

Marico acquires Set Wet, Livon, and Zatak from Reckitt Benckiser.

2020

Harsh Mariwala receives the Ernst & Young World 'Entrepreneur of the Year' Award.

2022

Harsh Mariwala receives the AIMA Life Time Achievement Award.

Harsh Mariwala : FAQs

What is Harsh Mariwala's current net worth?

Harsh Mariwala's current net worth is $3.82 billion.

What is Harsh Mariwala's current global rank among billionaires?

Harsh Mariwala holds the 1092nd position globally among billionaires.

What is Harsh Mariwala's current ranking within the India?

Harsh Mariwala holds the 50th position in India.

What was the change in Harsh Mariwala's net worth compared to the previous year?

Harsh Mariwala's net worth decreased by 125.71 million dollars compared to the previous year 2025, when his net worth was 3.95 billion dollars.

What is the recent change in Harsh Mariwala's net worth?

Harsh Mariwala's net worth increased by 81.08 million dollars recently, a 2.12% increase, with his net worth standing at 3.82 billion dollars.

What are Harsh Mariwala's main sources of wealth?

Harsh Mariwala's main source of income comes from Consumer Goods.

In which industry does Harsh Mariwala primarily operate?

Harsh Mariwala is primarily involved in the Food & Beverage industry.

What is Harsh Mariwala educational background?

Harsh Mariwala holds a Bachelor of Arts/Science from the University of Mumbai.

How old is Harsh Mariwala?

Harsh Mariwala is 74 years old.

How many children does Harsh Mariwala have?

Harsh Mariwala has 2 children.

Who is Harsh Mariwala and what is Marico?

Harsh Mariwala is an Indian entrepreneur, the founder, and Chairman of Marico, a leading FMCG company listed in the Fortune India 500. Marico is known for its renowned brands and operates in 25 countries across Asia and Africa.

What key milestones define Harsh Mariwala's career?

Harsh Mariwala began his career in 1971 with Bombay Oil Industries, a family business. He founded Marico in 1990 and expanded it internationally in the late 1990s. Mariwala also established several initiatives like Kaya Limited, Ascent Foundation, Marico Innovation Foundation, Mariwala Health Initiative, and Sharp Ventures.

How did Harsh Mariwala's family background contribute to his business success?

Harsh Mariwala's grandfather Vallabhdas Vasanji migrated to Mumbai in 1862 and became a successful pepper dealer, earning the nickname 'Mariwala'. His father co-founded Bombay Oil Industries in 1948. Educated at Sydenham College, Mariwala joined the family business, thereby laying the foundation for his future enterprise, Marico.

What corporate social responsibility efforts has Harsh Mariwala undertaken?

Mariwala has been active in corporate social responsibility through founding the Marico Innovation Foundation for start-up mentorship, Ascent Foundation for entrepreneurial peer learning, and the Mariwala Health Initiative, which focuses on mental health issues.

How has Harsh Mariwala been recognized for his entrepreneurial achievements?

Harsh Mariwala has received numerous accolades for his contributions to business, including the 'Entrepreneur of the Year' Award from Ernst & Young in 2009, the Ernst & Young World 'Entrepreneur of the Year' Award in 2020, and the AIMA Life Time Achievement Award in 2022.