The Philanthropic Trailblazer: Azim Hashim Premji's Journey of Business and Social Impact
Azim Hashim Premji
Early Life and Formative Years
Azim Hashim Premji was born on July 24, 1945, in Bombay (now
Mumbai), India, into a prominent Gujarati Ismaili Muslim family. His father,
Muhammed Hashim Premji, was a renowned businessman known as the "Rice King
of Burma." Despite an invitation from Muhammad Ali Jinnah to relocate to
Pakistan, the family chose to remain in India, reflecting their deep-rooted
connection to the country. Azim's mother, a doctor by profession, served many
in need across the country, instilling in him values of compassion and service.
Education and Early Influences
Azim's academic journey led him to Stanford University,
where he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. During his
time in the U.S., he witnessed the rise of the digital era and the burgeoning
computer industry. These experiences would later influence his strategic
decisions in business.
We Rise By Lifting Others provides Biography of Great Businessman, Philanthropist - Azim Hashim Premji#businessman#age#net worth#investor#IT Wipro
Transition to Business Leadership
In 1966, at the age of 21, Azim returned to India following
the sudden demise of his father. He took the helm of the family business,
Western Indian Vegetable Products Ltd., which primarily produced hydrogenated
oils and soaps. Under his leadership, the company diversified into various
sectors, including bakery fats, ethnic ingredient-based toiletries, hair care
soaps, baby toiletries, lighting products, and hydraulic cylinders.
Visionary Leadership at Wipro
Azim's foresight led Wipro to transition from a traditional
oil manufacturer to a leading player in the IT industry. In the 1980s,
recognizing the potential of the emerging IT sector, he seized the opportunity
presented by IBM's exit from India and ventured into the software and hardware
domains. This strategic move propelled Wipro into the global IT arena. By 2025,
Wipro had become a $10 billion revenue company with a presence in 66 countries
Philanthropic Endeavors and Social Responsibility
Azim's commitment to social causes led him to establish the
Azim Premji Foundation in 2001, focusing on improving education in India. Over
the years, he has pledged a significant portion of his wealth to philanthropic
causes. In 2023-2024, the foundation disbursed $109 million to 940
organizations focusing on education, health, and other areas
Recognition and Legacy
Azim's contributions have earned him numerous accolades,
including the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award. He has
been recognized among the world's most generous philanthropists by Forbes and
TIME magazines. In 2025, he was featured in TIME100 Philanthropy for his
significant donations and impact on society
Future Outlook
As of 2025, Azim Premji continues to influence both the business and philanthropic landscapes. His legacy is a testament to the power of visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to societal betterment. Through his ongoing endeavors, he remains a beacon of inspiration for future generations.
