The latest EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2023, was released on October 2nd. Shiv Nadar, the co-founder of HCL, has emerged as India’s foremost philanthropist, making an astounding donation of ₹2,042 crore in FY23, averaging approximately ₹5.6 crore every day. His philanthropic endeavours are primarily focused on education, art, and culture.
This marked a 76% increase over his contributions in the previous fiscal year, where he was already donating more than Rs 3 crore daily. In total, 119 prominent Indian business leaders generously donated Rs 5 crore or more in FY23, collectively contributing a substantial Rs 8,445 crore to philanthropic causes. Azim Premji, the founder chairman of Wipro, secured the second position on the list, having given away a significant sum of Rs 1,774 crore during the year. This reflected a striking 267% increase compared to his contributions in FY22.
According to the report, The Bajaj family, along with Cyrus S Poonawalla & Adar Poonawalla, and Rohini Nilekani, achieved a noteworthy milestone by securing positions in the top 10 of the EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2023.
Shiv Nadar, at the helm of the Shiv Nadar Foundation established in 1994, operates under the principle of ‘Creative Philanthropy.’ His philanthropic efforts are notably concentrated in the domains of art and culture. Key initiatives by the foundation encompass SSN Institutions, Vidya Gyan, Shiv Nadar University, Shiv Nadar School, Shiksha Initiative, and Kiran Nadar Museum of Art. In total, the foundation has devoted a significant $1.1 billion to support these impactful initiatives.
Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries, along with his family, has made a significant impact on the philanthropic landscape by donating INR 376 crore in FY23. Their philanthropic efforts are being channelled through the Reliance Foundation, with a particular focus on improving the education and healthcare sectors.
Nikhil Kamath of Zerodha emerged as the youngest philanthropist on the list, securing the 12th position. The Kamath brothers donated Rs 110 crore during the year.
Rohini Nilekani of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies stood out as the leading woman philanthropist, contributing Rs 170 crore and securing the 10th position on the list.
The Adani Group chairman, Gautam Adani, and his family generously donated a total of Rs 285 crore, with their philanthropic efforts channeled through the Adani Foundation, primarily focusing on enhancing the education sector.
Education emerged as the most favored cause for donation, with 62 philanthropists collectively contributing Rs 1,547 crore. This was followed by Rs 1,345 crore in the arts, culture, and heritage, and Rs 633 crore in healthcare.
The EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2023, released on November 2, recognizes individuals and families in India who have made significant contributions to charity, social causes, and community development. This annual list celebrates their remarkable efforts in areas such as education, healthcare, and the environment, fostering a culture of giving and positive impact in India.