Meet man who owns Rs 1.10 lakh crore business, has no mobile phone, drives car worth Rs 6 lakh, his company is...

Written By Pravrajya Suruchi | Updated: Oct 16, 2024, 06:37 AM IST

Rama Murthy Thyagarajan

Rama Murthy Thyagarajan, founder of Shriram Group, is a billionaire who leads a modest life, shunning luxury despite his ₹1.10 lakh crore empire.

Rama Murthy Thyagarajan, the founder of the Shriram Group, is an unusual figure in the world of billionaires. Despite leading a massive ₹1.10 lakh crore financial empire, he chooses a life of simplicity, living in a modest home, driving a ₹6 lakh car, and even avoiding the use of a mobile phone. His story shows that wealth doesn't always need to be accompanied by a lavish lifestyle.

Thyagarajan's journey began in the 1960s when he founded the Shriram Group. What started as a small chit fund company has now grown into a financial giant, with Shriram Finance alone reaching a market valuation of ₹1.10 lakh crores. His approach to business was shaped by his early experiences working in an insurance company, where he noticed that traditional banks were often unwilling to serve certain groups, such as truck drivers and low-income earners.

Seeing this gap, Thyagarajan decided to focus on offering loans to these overlooked communities, especially financing commercial vehicles. His strategy paid off, and the company quickly expanded by meeting the needs of people who had few other options for financial assistance. His success wasn’t built on catering to wealthy clients but rather on understanding the needs of everyday people and providing solutions for them.

What truly sets Thyagarajan apart is his lifestyle. Even after amassing significant wealth, he continues to live modestly, staying far from the spotlight and technological luxuries. Remarkably, he once sold his stake in a $750 million company, choosing to donate the money to a trust. This decision highlighted his commitment to philanthropy and his dedication to keeping his life grounded in simplicity rather than luxury.

Rama Murthy Thyagarajan’s story teaches us that success isn't defined by material wealth but by the positive impact one creates. His life embodies humility, integrity, and the value of thinking outside the conventional path, making his journey an inspiring example for others.

 

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