Azim Premji turns 79: Here's all about the Czar of the Indian IT industry and Wipro's former chairman

Today marks a special occasion as Azim Premji, the influential founder of Wipro and a key figure in the Indian IT industry, celebrates his 79th birthday. Known for his remarkable achievements and generous spirit, Premji's journey from a young businessman to a global tech leader is truly inspiring. Over the years, he has transformed Wipro into a major IT powerhouse and dedicated much of his wealth to philanthropic causes. As we celebrate Azim Premji¡¯s 79th birthday, we look back at his incredible career, his dedication to making a difference, and the lasting impact he continues to have on both the business world and society.

A Visionary Leader in the IT Industry

Azim Premji was born on July 24, 1945. His path to success began at the age of 21 when he took over the family's cooking oil business after the sudden demise of his father Mohamed Premji in 1966 and expanded into software. Facing the challenge of modernizing the company, Premji led Wipro through a major transformation. By recognizing the potential in the computer industry in the 1970s, he shifted Wipro¡¯s focus towards computer hardware and later software. His leadership helped Wipro become a major player in the global IT market, especially in the United States.

Dedication to Philanthropy

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Premji¡¯s achievements extend beyond business. In 2001, he established the Azim Premji Foundation to improve education in rural India. His commitment to helping others was recognized in 2005 when he received the Padma Bhushan, one of India¡¯s highest civilian honors. His philanthropy has made a significant impact, reflecting his dedication to social causes.

The Premji Family: Insights into His Personal Life

Azim Premji is married to Yasmeen Premji, who is also deeply involved in charitable work through the Azim Premji Foundation. Together, they have built a legacy of giving and social responsibility. Their children are actively involved in carrying forward this legacy. Rishad Premji succeeded his father as chairman of Wipro in 2019, continuing the family¡¯s business tradition and Tariq Premji is currently a Non-Executive Director at Wipro Enterprises and the Vice President of the Azim Premji Endowment Fund.

Azim Premji¡¯s Net Worth and Legacy

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Even though recent changes in Wipro¡¯s share value have affected his wealth, Azim Premji remains one of India¡¯s richest people. In 2024, he is ranked 165th on Forbes¡¯ list of the world¡¯s richest people, with a net worth of $11.8 billion, as of today. As per Business Standard, in 2019, Premji¡¯s remarkable decision to donate two-thirds of his wealth, which amounts to $21 billion, to charitable causes, further highlights his commitment to making a difference.

Interesting Facts About Azim Premji

Historical Decision:

After the 1947 partition of India and Pakistan, Premji¡¯s father, Mohamed Premji also known as the Rice King of Burma was invited by Pakistan¡¯s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, to move to Pakistan. He chose to stay in India, setting the stage for future success.

Educational Journey:

Premji was studying engineering at Stanford University when he had to return to India after his father¡¯s sudden death. Although he left Stanford, he completed his degree in 1999, more than 30 years later.

Simple Lifestyle:

Despite his great wealth, Premji leads a modest life. He travels in economy class, avoids expensive cars, and prefers staying in company guest houses during business trips.

Azim Premji philanthropy

Azim Premji is not just a successful businessman but also a major philanthropist. In 2001, he set up the Azim Premji Foundation to improve primary education in India. The foundation has helped bring computer education to many schools. In FY20 and FY21, Premji was named India¡¯s top philanthropist, donating around Rs 22 crore each day to charity totaling Rs 7,904 crore in FY20, and in FY21, he donated Rs 9,713 crore or Rs 27 crore daily. His foundation has also made large donations to support various causes, including the fight against COVID-19.

Azim Premji¡¯s Lasting Influence

As Azim Premji turns 79, his remarkable contributions to the IT industry and his generous philanthropic work are worth celebrating. His life story is a powerful example of how vision, dedication, and generosity can create lasting change and inspire others.