Roshni Nadar Becomes First Indian Woman in World’s Top 10 Richest Women

Roshni Nadar, Chairperson of HCL Technologies, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian woman to enter the world’s top 10 richest women list. According to the Hurun Global Rich List 2025, she ranks 5th among the world’s wealthiest women, with a net worth of ₹3.5 lakh crore (US$40 billion). This achievement follows the transfer of a 47% stake in HCL Technologies from her father, Shiv Nadar, further cementing her position as one of India’s most influential billionaires. She remains India’s richest woman and is now the third-richest person in the country in 2025.

Who is Roshni Nadar?

Early Life and Education

Roshni Nadar was born into the renowned Nadar family, with her father, Shiv Nadar, being the founder of HCL Technologies. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management. In 2023, she was honored with the Schaffner Award at Kellogg for her contributions to society.

Role at HCL Technologies

As the Chairperson of HCL Technologies, Roshni Nadar leads one of the world’s top IT firms, with a market capitalization of US$48 billion. She also chairs the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Board Committee, overseeing key philanthropic and leadership programs.

Philanthropic Contributions

• Shiv Nadar Foundation: Oversees education and leadership initiatives worth over $1.2 billion.
• VidyaGyan Academy: A leadership academy in Uttar Pradesh, supporting talented students from underprivileged backgrounds.
• Board Memberships: Serves on prestigious boards such as MIT School of Engineering’s Dean’s Advisory Council and The Nature Conservancy.

Global Recognitions

• Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur (2024) – Awarded by France.
• Forbes’ 100 Most Powerful Women – Featured since 2017.

Hurun Global Rich List 2025: Top 10 Wealthiest Women

The Hurun Global Rich List 2025 features 561 women, with 224 of them being self-made, showcasing the growing influence of women in business worldwide. Here are the top 10 wealthiest women:

1. Alice Walton (USA) – US$102 Billion

Background: Daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton. Her wealth surged by 46% due to a rise in Walmart’s share price.

2. Francoise Bettencourt Meyers (France) – US$67 Billion

Background: Heiress to L’Oréal. Despite a 26% decline in net worth, she remains one of the wealthiest women.

3. Julia Koch & Family (USA) – US$60 Billion

Background: Widow of David Koch, her family’s stake in Koch Industries continues to generate wealth.

4. Jacqueline Mars (USA) – US$53 Billion

Background: Heiress to Mars Inc., her wealth grew by 33%, largely due to the global pet food industry boom.

5. Roshni Nadar (India) – US$40 Billion

Background: First Indian woman to enter the world’s top 10 wealthiest women list. Chairperson of HCL Technologies.

6. Abigail Johnson (USA) – US$32 Billion

Background: CEO of Fidelity Investments, her wealth increased by 14% due to growth in assets under management.

7. Marilyn Simons & Family (USA) – US$31 Billion

Background: Widow of James Simons, founder of Renaissance Technologies, known for strategic investments and philanthropy.

8. Linda Stephens & Family (USA) – US$30 Billion

Background: Widow of Autry Stephens, founder of Endeavor Energy Resources, marking her debut in the top 10.

Summary of Key Details