"The Philanthropic Trailblazer: Azim Hashim Premji's Journey of Business and Social Impact”
Birth and Background
In the
bustling streets of Bombay, where the aroma of spices mingled with the scent of
sea breeze, Azim Hashim Premji was born into a world of contrasts on 24 July
1945. His family, steeped in the rich traditions of the Khoja Ismaili Muslim
community, had long been associated with business success. But young Azim's
journey was destined to transcend the boundaries of convention, carving a path
that would leave an indelible mark on the fabric of Indian society.
Early Influences and Values
Raised in an environment where business discussions were as common as family dinners, Azim imbibed the values of hard work, perseverance, and compassion from an early age. His father started a company named as WIPRO which stands for Western Indian Products Vegetable Ltd. Organization. His father's close friendship with Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, underscored the family's stature in the community and instilled in Azim a deep sense of responsibility towards his fellow citizens. Muhammad Ali Jinnah, offered them to switch in Pakistan but Azim’s father declined this offer as they think India is there Karma Bhumi and they chose to remain in India.
Educational Pursuits and Cultural Identity
Despite his privileged upbringing, Azim's parents were firm believers in the power of education to transform lives. They ensured that their son received the best schooling Bombay had to offer, instilling in him a love for learning and a thirst for knowledge that would shape his future endeavors. Little did they know that their son would one day become a trailblazer in the world of business and philanthropy, reshaping the landscape of Indian society in ways they could never have imagined.
Azim's academic journey took him across the seas to the hallowed halls of Stanford University, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering degree. It was here that Azim's horizons expanded, as he was exposed to cutting-edge technologies and ideas that would shape the course of his life. But even amidst the academic rigors of Stanford, Azim never forgot his roots, remaining deeply connected to his Indian heritage and the values instilled in him by his parents.
Biography of Great Businessman, Philanthropist - Azim Hashim Premji
Transition to Business Leadership
Upon his return to India, Azim was thrust into the world of business following the sudden demise of his father. At the tender age of 21, he found himself at the helm of the family business in 1966, Western Indian Vegetable Products Ltd. which produces soaps, oil, vegetables etc. With characteristic determination and resilience, Azim set about transforming the company from a modest oil manufacturer into a global powerhouse.
Visionary Leadership at
Wipro
Under Azim's visionary leadership, Wipro embarked on a journey
of diversification and growth, venturing into new sectors and embracing
emerging technologies with gusto. The company's transition from a traditional
oil manufacturer to a leading player in the IT industry was a testament to
Azim's foresight and strategic vision. Throughout his education in America,
Azim witnessed a number of uprisings. The US was then transitioning to the
digital era. Numerous little computer manufacturing businesses were entering in
this innovative computer making sector. When the Indian government closed the
business for IBM in India during 1979,
Azim saw an opportunity and instantly made the decision to set up his own
business in India. Because in India there were no any company who provides
services in this sector and realized that this will going to be golden duck for
company and exactly happens like that only. Then with partnership with US Company
they started to manufacture mini computers then they entered in software
providing business. Also he started many companies which make Bakery Fats,
Ethnic Ingredient based Toiletries, Hair Care Soaps, Baby Toiletries, Lightning
products, Hydraulic Cylinders etc. In 1999, Wipro Company was going through its
golden days. Then Azim’s shifted their area of interest towards serving peoples.
Philanthropic Pursuits and Social
Responsibility
Azim's ambitions extended far beyond the boardroom. He believed fervently in the power of education to uplift the masses and transform societies—a belief that would shape his philanthropic endeavors for decades to come. In 2001, Azim founded the Azim Premji Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving education in India—a cause close to his heart.
Driven by a deep sense of responsibility towards his fellow citizens, Azim pledged to donate a significant portion of his wealth to philanthropic causes. His decision to sign the Giving Pledge in 2013, committing to donate at least half of his wealth to charity, was a reflection of his unwavering commitment to social welfare and nation-building. He donated Rs 4.53 Billion on financial year 2019, Rs 79 Billion on Financial year 2020 which 17 times greater than 2019. In 2021, he donated near about 10,000 crores in 2021. His primary cause of donation is eduation because he thinks Education is the only way to with which India can be super power.
Impact and Recognition
As the years passed, Azim's philanthropic efforts earned him widespread recognition and acclaim, with accolades pouring in from all corners of the globe. From prestigious awards such as the Padma Vibhushan to being named among the world's most generous philanthropists by Forbes magazine, Azim's impact on Indian society was undeniable.But for Azim, true success lay not in wealth or accolades, but in the lives he touched and the difference he made in the world.
Legacy and Future Outlook
As the
sun set on another day in Bombay, Azim Premji's legacy shone bright—a beacon of
hope and inspiration for generations to come. And as he continued to chart new
frontiers in the realms of business and philanthropy, one thing remained
abundantly clear—Azim Premji's journey was far from over, and his impact would
be felt for generations to come.
