Indian entrepreneurs have long been celebrated for their ability to adapt, innovate, and thrive in dynamic global environments.
Over the decades, a significant number of Indian-origin business leaders have emerged as key players in international markets, crafting inspiring success stories that resonate worldwide.
Whether they are leading multinational corporations, establishing thriving businesses in diverse industries, or championing groundbreaking innovations, these entrepreneurs embody the essence of determination, cultural pride, and strategic foresight.
This article highlights some of the most remarkable journeys of Indian entrepreneurs who have built successful businesses overseas.
Their stories demonstrate the potential of Indian talent to excel on the global stage, inspiring future generations to break barriers and redefine the boundaries of success.
Ylias Akbaraly: Madagascar’s Industrial Titan
Ylias Akbaraly, a prominent entrepreneur of Indian heritage, is celebrated as Madagascar’s wealthiest individual. His entrepreneurial journey began with his family’s small business, rooted in his great-grandfather’s migration from Gujarat to Madagascar in the early 20th century.
Today, Akbaraly heads Groupe Sipromad, a diversified conglomerate operating in sectors such as renewable energy, technology, real estate, broadcasting, aviation, and tourism.
Under Akbaraly’s leadership, Groupe Sipromad expanded significantly, gaining international recognition with milestones like the acquisition of Thomson Broadcast in 2018.
This move signaled a bold step toward global dominance in the broadcasting industry, establishing Sipromad as a key player in Africa and beyond.
Additionally, the group has ventured into green energy projects, aiming to reduce Madagascar’s reliance on traditional energy sources. Akbaraly’s vision blends innovation with sustainable growth, making him a trailblazer in emerging markets.
His contributions to Madagascar’s economy have also earned him accolades as a philanthropist, particularly in education and healthcare development in rural areas.
Akbaraly is an inspiration to not just Indians around the world but to every human. If you want to use Madagascar to your benefit too and set up a successful business, Madagascar Invest is here to simplify your investment process.
Sunil Bharti Mittal: Globalizing Telecommunications
Sunil Bharti Mittal, founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises, is a driving force in global telecommunications. Starting with a small bicycle business in India, Mittal’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Bharti Airtel, one of the world’s largest telecom companies.
Airtel operates in over 18 countries across Asia and Africa, serving millions of customers and transforming connectivity in underserved regions.
Mittal’s ventures are not confined to India. In 2024, he made headlines by acquiring a 24.5% stake in the British telecom operator BT Group for $4 billion. This bold investment underscores India’s rising influence in global markets and Mittal’s strategic vision for international expansion.
His initiatives in Africa, where Airtel’s affordable services have bridged the digital divide, have been particularly impactful. Mittal’s success reflects a seamless blend of Indian business values, innovation, and a global outlook, earning him recognition as a pioneer in telecommunications worldwide.
Dhananjay Datar: The ‘Masala King’ of the Middle East
Dhananjay Datar, known as the “Masala King,” is the founder of Al Adil Group, a major player in the Middle East’s spice and food industry.
Starting from a modest grocery store established by his father, Datar expanded the business into a vast network of over 43 supermarkets across the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council).
Datar’s ventures cater primarily to the Indian diaspora, providing authentic spices, grains, and other essential ingredients that resonate with their culinary traditions. Beyond retail, Al Adil Group operates state-of-the-art spice processing units, ensuring quality and authenticity in every product.
Datar’s success exemplifies how Indian entrepreneurs can tap into niche markets abroad while staying true to their cultural roots. His philanthropic efforts include supporting community welfare programs for expatriates and funding education initiatives in India and the UAE.
Shamil and Kavi Thakrar: Redefining Indian Cuisine in the UK
Shamil and Kavi Thakrar, cousins and co-founders of Dishoom, have redefined Indian dining in the UK. Inspired by the nostalgic Irani cafés of Bombay, Dishoom offers a unique blend of authentic Indian cuisine and vibrant ambiance. Their restaurant chain has become a beloved brand, earning accolades for its culinary excellence and cultural authenticity.
With multiple outlets across the UK, Dishoom has captured the imagination of food enthusiasts and critics alike. Their menu features innovative dishes alongside traditional favorites, with a focus on quality and storytelling that celebrates India’s rich culinary heritage.
The Thakrars now aim to expand their footprint to the US, promising to bring their unique dining experience to a new audience. Their commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing further enhances Dishoom’s reputation as a socially conscious brand.
Amit Walia: A Leader in the Tech Industry
Amit Walia, CEO of Informatica, is a shining example of Indian talent thriving in Silicon Valley. Born and raised in India, Walia’s journey from humble beginnings to the helm of a global tech giant is inspiring.
Under Walia’s leadership, Informatica has solidified its reputation as a leader in data management and cloud computing. He has steered the company through significant transformations, emphasizing innovation and customer-centric solutions.
Walia’s efforts in championing Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration into data analytics have set new industry standards. His success underscores the pivotal role of Indian entrepreneurs in shaping the global technology landscape. Walia also actively mentors upcoming talent in the tech sector, advocating for diversity and inclusion in leadership roles.
Conclusion
These stories highlight the exceptional achievements of Indian entrepreneurs who have ventured beyond their homeland to build global businesses.
From technology and telecommunications to cuisine and consumer goods, they serve as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and strategic vision that define Indian entrepreneurship.
Their contributions not only elevate India’s global standing but also inspire future generations to dream big and think globally. As these leaders continue to break new ground, their impact resonates across borders, enriching economies and societies worldwide.