Mukesh Ambani's childhood friend and billionaire brother-in-law: The incredible story of Dattaraj Salgaocar
Dattaraj Salgaocar, also known as Raj Salgaocar, is a prominent businessman who shares a deep-rooted connection with Mukesh Ambani. Their friendship dates back to their childhood days in MumbaiĄ¯s first skyscraper, Usha Kiran on Carmichael Road. The Ambani family lived on the 22nd floor, while the Salgaocars resided on the 14th. Here, Dattaraj and Mukesh's youngest sister, Deepti Ambani, fell in love. Dattaraj has made significant strides in various industries, including real estate, sports, and the arts. His ventures and properties in Goa, combined with his close ties to the Ambani family, paint a picture of a man who has successfully merged business with personal passion, creating a legacy beyond wealth and influence.
Mentorship and Family Ties
After the untimely death of Dattaraj's father, Vasudev Salgaocar, founder of the V M Salgaocar Group, Dhirubhai Ambani stepped in as a mentor to the young Salgaocar. This close family relationship blossomed over frequent visits and shared moments, such as enjoying onion bhajis together. Dattaraj's bond with the Ambani family deepened, leading to his marriage to Deepti in 1983.
Education
Dattaraj Salgaocar is a trained production engineer from VJTI, Bombay University, and has an MBA in Finance from the well-known Wharton Business School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Business Ventures and Luxurious Properties
Post-marriage, Dattaraj and Deepti Salgaocar moved to Goa in 1984. They settled in a sprawling ancestral home in Chicalim, near Dabolim Airport, designed by architect Rallino Souza. The mansion features beautifully landscaped gardens. Additionally, they own a beach-facing house in Candolim and another luxurious home in Dona Paula, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea. These prime properties are worth multiple crores due to their prime locations.
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Sports Enthusiast and Art Patron
Dattaraj turned his passion for sports into a thriving business. In 1974, he formed the Salgaocar Cricket Club under the V M Salgaocar Corporation, which has won numerous prestigious tournaments. He also served as the President of the Goa Cricket Association from 1994 to 1997. His love for football led him to co-found FC Goa in the Indian Super League alongside Virat Kohli and other notable businessmen. Although he stepped down from ownership in 2016, his contribution to the sport remains significant.
In 2009, Dattaraj established the Sunaparanta Goa Centre for the Arts, a non-profit initiative promoting local artists and connecting them with international galleries. Located in the scenic Altinho hills of Panjim, the center features exhibition galleries, a library, an amphitheatre, and more. Deepti Salgaocar serves as the vice-chairperson of this cultural hub.
Leadership and Philanthropy
Beyond his business acumen, Dattaraj Salgaocar is a passionate photographer and wildlife conservationist. He holds several key positions, including Chairman of the V.M. Salgaocar Institute of International Hospitality Education, President of V.M. Salgaocar College of Law, and Vice President of the Goa International Centre. His dedication to education and community service is evident through his involvement in various philanthropic activities.
Dattaraj SalgaocarĄ¯s life is a testament to his multifaceted personality, balancing business, sports, art, and philanthropy while maintaining a close-knit family life with Deepti and their two children, Vikram and Isheta.
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