India’s billionaire count touches 334 in 2024 compared to 259 in 2023 and 109 in 2014. This year’s Hurun Rich List includes 1,539 individuals with a net worth of £ 100 mn or more - an increase of 220 from last year, and with 272 new entrants. The wealth calculations are a snapshot as of July 31, 2024.
Gautam Adani has overtaken Mukesh Ambani as the richest person in India, according to the 2024 Hurun India Rich List. Adani, 62, with a wealth of £ 116 bn, saw his fortune grow 95% and thus, propelling him to the top spot. Ambani, 67, slid to the second position with a wealth of £101 bn. Both billionaires added the most to their wealth in absolute terms.
“Rising like a phoenix after the Hindenburg allegations, Adani & family have secured the top spot in this year’s rankings, with a 95% increase in wealth compared to last year. Adani has recorded the highest wealth growth within the top 10 over the past five years, adding £ 102 bn, despite the challenges following the report,” said Anas Rahman Junaid, founder and chief researcher, Hurun India.
The total wealth of those on the list has grown to £1,590 bn, surpassing the combined GDP of Saudi Arabia and Switzerland and accounting for more than half of India’s GDP.
Among the new entrants is Shah Rukh Khan (58), who debuted on the list with a wealth of £730 mn, largely driven by his stake in Kolkata Knight Riders and Red Chillies Entertainment.
Other notable figures from the film industry joining the list include Juhi Chawla, Hrithik Roshan, Karan Johar, and Amitabh Bachchan.
Hyderabad added 17 new entrants, surpassing Bengaluru to secure the third position in terms of residents on the Hurun list. The list also highlights the rise of India’s manufacturing sector, which produced 1,016 individuals who collectively added £ 280 bn to their wealth this year. Additionally, 18 individuals are now worth £ 10 bn or more, up by six from the previous year.
