THE INDIAN PHILANTHROPIC TITANS

What does it take to make a real difference in the world? How can someone leave a mark that changes lives, uplifts communities, and creates a brighter future for all? The answer is Philanthropy- a word that signifies much more than giving. Derived from the ancient Greek roots 'philos' (loving) and 'athropos' (man or humanity).

Philanthropy in India is as old as India itself. The Bhagavad Gita, a very popular Hindu Scripture says that One who enjoys abundance without sharing with others is indeed a thief.

Charity and philanthropy have always been part of the Indian traditions.

Jamsetji Tata 

We all have heard of the visionary industrialist Jamsetji Tata and his remarkable contribution to the industry. The first known Indian endowment, the J.N. Tata Endowment, established by him in 1892, encouraged Indian students to pursue higher education. Jamsetji was named the greatest philanthrope of the 20th century by the EdelGive Foundation and Hurun Research India. With donations worth $102.4 billion, he is the world's biggest philanthropist of the last century, much ahead of Bill and Melinda Gates.

In October 2023, Edel Give Hurun released the India Philanthropy List 2023 which reflects that India's richest are not only growing richer but also becoming more generous. According to the report, Hurun India found 119 philanthropists who donated more than Rs 5 crores in FY'23, an increase of 11% from last year. The report also listed 25 new entrants, with Infosys Co-Founder K Dinesh standing out as 'most generous' by donating Rs 47 crore.

Top 5 Philanthropists

1. SHIV NADAR & FAMILY

Foundation: Shiv Nadar Foundation

One man who always stays in the headlines when it comes to philanthropy is Shiv Nadar. He has topped the EdelGive Hurun Philanthropy List 2023 again for the fifth consecutive year by donating over Rs 2,042 crore or Rs 5.6 crore per day. He has contributed 76% more than his donations in FY22 (₹1161 crore).