New Delhi, October 2, 2025 — In a milestone for corporate India, Roshni Nadar Malhotra, Chairperson of HCL Technologies, has emerged as the richest woman in the country, securing the third position in the prestigious M3M Hurun India Rich List 2025 with an estimated wealth of ₹2.84 trillion ($340 billion).
This is the first time a woman has broken into the top three of the influential ranking, which tracks India’s wealthiest entrepreneurs and business leaders. At 44, Ms. Nadar is not only the wealthiest woman in India but also the youngest among the top 10 billionaires on the list.
From Business Education to Global Leadership
An alumna of the Kellogg School of Management, United States, Ms. Nadar joined HCL’s board in 2009 and quickly rose through the ranks. In 2020, she became Chairperson of HCL Technologies, one of India’s leading IT services companies, a role in which she has been instrumental in strengthening the company’s global footprint. Under her stewardship, HCL has expanded its influence in digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity services.
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Beyond Business: Philanthropy and Education
Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Ms. Nadar plays an active role in the Shiv Nadar Foundation, founded by her father, Shiv Nadar. The foundation focuses on education and rural development, with a mission to drive social change through high-quality institutions and learning initiatives. This dual role — at the helm of a global technology giant and as a leader in philanthropy — has placed her at the intersection of business growth and social impact.
Women Entrepreneurs on the Rise
The 2025 Hurun list also features 100 women entrepreneurs and leaders, underscoring the growing role of women in wealth creation in India. Notable names include Falguni Nayar, founder of beauty retailer Nykaa, and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairperson of Biocon. Analysts point out that the increased presence of women reflects a shift in India’s entrepreneurial landscape, where female leaders are carving out space in traditionally male-dominated industries.
Analysts Weigh In
Financial experts suggest that Ms. Nadar’s ascent to the top tier of the rich list is symbolic of a technology-driven Indian economy, where wealth creation is increasingly tied to global IT services, innovation, and digital platforms. “Her rise marks a new era for India — where women not only participate in wealth creation but redefine the scale of it,” said one market analyst.
