IN HONOR OF
SHRI ARVIND MAFATLAL
Shri Arvind Mafatlal was an industrialist, social reformer, and visionary leader whose vision and leadership played a prominent role in putting India on the global economic growth spectrum. His appeal was exceptional and inclusive and in no way limited to just economic growth but also a wide range of human achievements - industry, philanthropy, social progress, and spirituality.
Mafatlal Industries, founded by his grandfather in 1905, is a leader in the textiles business for over 100 years now, but it is under Arvindbhai’s leadership, the Group transformed into a large conglomerate with interests ranging from petrochemicals, rubber chemicals, plastics, gas distribution, information technology and engineering. While he pioneered in starting many of these industries in India, he also partnered with some of the best in the world like Royal Dutch Shell and Hoechst to set up companies like PIL and NOCIL - the petrochemicals and specialty chemicals businesses. Those business went on to become some of the largest in the world and truly put India on the world map for chemicals manufacturing.
As a Trustee and Chairman of the Bharatiya Agro Industries Foundation (BAIF) and Shri Sadguru Seva Sangh Trust (SSSST), Arvindbhai’s remarkable contributions to healthcare, education, women's empowerment, farming, energy conservation, dairy development, cattle care, and employment for rural youth has benefited the entire society.
Arvindbhai collaborated closely with Manibhai Desai to establish BAIF and served as its driving force for decades. BAIF, utilizing modern technology and research, has now uplifted the livelihoods of over 5.8 million families across 16 states. Their joint vision for the 'Million Cow Project' aimed to provide breeding services to 1 million cows through 500 centers, expanding from BAIF's initial 50 centers. Currently, this initiative supports 4 million families in 14 states, contributing significantly to the rural economy with an annual impact of over Rs. 25,000 Crores. Over 40 years, the mission experienced a remarkable fivefold expansion.
Heading the Shri Sadguru Seva Sangh Trust, Arvindbhai's lifelong dedication to service endures, with Sadguru Netra Chikitlaya conducting 250,000 eye surgeries annually as part of his impactful legacy.
On the 27th of October 2023, commemorating the 100th Birth Anniversary of Shri Arvind Mafatlal, Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, unveiled a special postal stamp as a tribute to Lt. Arvind Mafatlal for his significant impact on the industrial and agricultural domains.
A Life Lived with Grace - A Tribute
A Life Lived with Grace (1923-2011) is a heartfelt tribute to late Shri Arvind Mafatlal. This book, crafted with deep affection, beautifully compiles cherished memories, reflections, and the perspectives of distinguished individuals who interacted with Shri Arvind Mafatlal throughout his remarkable corporate and philanthropic journey. It offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a visionary leader, capturing his dedication, integrity, and the profound impact he made on the business world and society.
