In a world where boardrooms are still largely dominated by men, Roshni Nadar Malhotra stands tall—gracefully, powerfully, and unapologetically. As the Chairperson of HCL Technologies, she isn’t just a business leader; she’s a symbol of transformation in India’s corporate landscape. In 2025, she continues to hold the title of India’s richest woman, a distinction she’s carried for several years now. But beyond the headlines and net worth figures lies a story of quiet determination, deep-rooted values, and a vision that extends far beyond profit margins.
Born into a family of legacy and leadership, Roshni could have easily chosen a life of comfort. Instead, she chose purpose. From her early days in media to her current role at the helm of one of India’s largest tech giants, her journey has been anything but conventional. She’s not just inherited a business empire—she’s reshaped it. And in doing so, she’s inspired a generation of women to dream bigger and lead louder.
Early Life & Background
Roshni was born in 1982 in Delhi, India. Her early years were shaped by a blend of tradition and modernity. Growing up in the capital city, she was exposed to a vibrant mix of cultures, languages, and ideas. But what truly set her childhood apart was the environment at home—one that valued education, creativity, and service to society. Her current age is 43 years as of 2025.
Her father, Shiv Nadar, was already a towering figure in India’s tech industry, having founded HCL Technologies. Her mother, Kiran Nadar, was a passionate art collector and philanthropist. Together, they created a home that was intellectually stimulating and emotionally grounded. Roshni’s upbringing was not just about privilege—it was about purpose.
Family Legacy
It’s impossible to talk about Roshni without mentioning her father, Shiv Nadar. A pioneer in India’s IT revolution, Shiv Nadar founded HCL Technologies in the 1970s. What began as a garage startup has today become a global tech powerhouse. But Shiv’s legacy isn’t just about business—it’s about building institutions that last.
He also founded the Shiv Nadar Foundation in 1994, with a focus on education and social transformation. His belief in the power of knowledge and his commitment to nation-building have left a lasting impression on Roshni. In many ways, she is carrying forward his vision—but with her own unique touch.
Roshni’s mother, Kiran Nadar, is a force in her own right. A renowned art collector and philanthropist, she established the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, India’s first private museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art. Her passion for culture and community has been a guiding light for Roshni.
Roshni Nadar Wiki | BIO
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Roshni Nadar Malhotra |
| Profession | Businesswoman |
| Known For | Chairperson of HCL Technologies; Richest Woman in India |
| Date of Birth | 1982 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 43 Years |
| Birthplace | Delhi, India |
| Hometown | Thiruchendur, Tamil Nadu |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Height | 167 cm / 1.67 m / 5’5” |
| Weight | 56 kg |
| Eye Colour | Black |
| Hair Colour | Black |
| School | Vasant Valley School, New Delhi |
| College/University | Northwestern University; Kellogg School of Management |
| Educational Qualification | Major in Communication Studies; MBA in Social Enterprise Management |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Marriage Year | 2009 |
| Husband | Shikhar Malhotra (Executive Director, HCL Technologies) |
| Children | Two sons – Armaan (b. 2013), Jahaan (b. 2017) |
| Father | Shiv Nadar (Founder, HCL Tech) |
| Mother | Kiran Nadar |
| Early Career | CNN America, Sky News UK (Media Programming & Functioning) |
| Company Leadership | Chairperson of HCL Technologies (since 2020) |
| Philanthropy | Trustee – Shiv Nadar Foundation; Founder – The Habitats Trust |
| Net Worth (2025) | ₹84,330 Crores (Approx.) |
| Notable Awards | NDTV Young Philanthropist (2014), Vogue India Philanthropist (2017), Forbes Asia Power Businesswomen (2020), Lewis Institute Changemaker, WSIE Award |
| Hobbies | Classical Music, Yoga, Wildlife Conservation, Traveling |
| Wikipedia | @Roshni_Nadar |
Education
Roshni’s academic journey began at Vasant Valley School in New Delhi, one of the city’s most prestigious institutions. Known for its progressive curriculum and emphasis on holistic development, the school played a key role in nurturing her curiosity and confidence.
After completing school, Roshni moved to the United States to pursue higher education. She enrolled at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, where she majored in Communication Studies with a focus on Radio/TV/Film. This choice might seem surprising for someone destined to lead a tech empire—but it was a deliberate one.
Eager to combine her creative instincts with business acumen, Roshni went on to earn an MBA in Social Enterprise Management and Strategy from the Kellogg School of Management. This program was a perfect fit for her—blending business strategy with social impact.
Formative Years Abroad
Roshni’s decision to study in the United States wasn’t just about academics—it was about broadening her worldview. At Northwestern University, nestled in the vibrant town of Evanston, Illinois, she immersed herself in a culture that encouraged critical thinking, creativity, and independence. It was here that she majored in Communication Studies, with a focus on Radio/TV/Film, a choice that reflected her early interest in storytelling and media.
Living away from home gave her a sense of autonomy and resilience. She learned to navigate a new culture, manage responsibilities, and build relationships across diverse communities. These experiences helped shape her into a confident communicator and a thoughtful leader—skills that would later prove invaluable in the boardroom.
Early Career in Media
Before stepping into the world of business, Roshni carved out a brief but meaningful career in journalism. She worked with CNN America and Sky News UK, where she took on roles in functioning and programming. These weren’t just resume fillers—they were real-world experiences that taught her how to think on her feet, manage deadlines, and communicate with clarity.
At CNN, she was exposed to the fast-paced world of global news. At Sky News, she learned the intricacies of production and editorial decision-making. These roles helped her develop a keen sense of storytelling, audience engagement, and the importance of factual accuracy—principles she would carry into her later work in business and philanthropy.
Transition into Business Leadership
In 2009, at the age of 28, Roshni officially joined HCL Corporation, the holding company for all HCL Group entities. This wasn’t a ceremonial appointment—she was deeply involved in strategic planning, operations, and governance. Her entry into the company marked the beginning of a new chapter—not just for her, but for the entire HCL ecosystem.
She quickly proved her mettle, earning the respect of colleagues and stakeholders alike. Her background in media gave her a fresh perspective, and her education in social enterprise helped her align business goals with societal impact. Within a year, she was appointed Executive Director and CEO of HCL Corporation.
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Chairperson of HCL Technologies
In 2020, Roshni Nadar made history by becoming the Chairperson of HCL Technologies, making her the first woman to lead a publicly listed IT company in India. It was a landmark moment—not just for her, but for women across the country who aspired to break the glass ceiling.
Her appointment wasn’t just symbolic—it was strategic. Under her leadership, HCL continued to grow, innovate, and expand its global footprint. She brought a fresh perspective to the boardroom, blending business acumen with a deep sense of purpose.
Roshni’s leadership is defined by clarity, compassion, and conviction. She believes in leading by example, listening more than speaking, and making decisions that balance profit with purpose. She’s not afraid to take bold steps, but she always does so with careful thought and consideration.
Wealth & Rankings
As of March 2025, Roshni Malhotra remains India’s richest woman, a title she has held consistently since 2020. Her wealth is not just a reflection of inheritance—it’s a testament to her strategic leadership and business foresight. According to the latest reports, her net worth stands at ₹84,330 crores, placing her among the top three wealthiest individuals in India.
This financial milestone was significantly bolstered in early 2025 when her father, Shiv Nadar, transferred 47% of his stake in HCL Technologies and Vama Sundari Investments to her via a gift deed. This move not only solidified her position as the largest shareholder of HCL but also marked a generational shift in leadership and legacy.
Roshni’s influence extends far beyond Indian borders. In 2023, she was ranked 60th on Forbes’ list of the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women, a list she has appeared on multiple times since 2019. She was also featured on Fortune’s Most Powerful Women list in the same year, securing the 72nd spot.
Awards & Honours
Over the years, Roshni has received numerous accolades that highlight her contributions to business and philanthropy. In 2014, she was named NDTV’s Young Philanthropist of the Year, recognizing her early efforts in social impact. That same year, she was honored with The World’s Most Innovative People Award by the World Summit on Innovation & Entrepreneurship (WSIE) for her work in philanthropic innovation.
In 2017, she received the Lewis Institute Community Changemaker Award from Babson College, followed by Vogue India’s Philanthropist of the Year award. These honors reflect her commitment to creating meaningful change through education, conservation, and community development.
In addition to her Forbes and Fortune rankings, Roshni was recognized by Horasis, a global think tank, as the Indian Business Leader of the Year in 2019. Her inclusion in the 2020 Forbes Asia’s Power Businesswomen list further cemented her status as a trailblazer in the corporate world.
The Habitats Trust
In 2018, Roshni founded The Habitats Trust, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting India’s natural habitats and endangered species. Her love for wildlife isn’t just a hobby—it’s a calling. She often speaks about the need to preserve biodiversity and create sustainable ecosystems for future generations.
The trust works with grassroots organizations, researchers, and conservationists to support projects that protect lesser-known species and fragile habitats. From the Great Indian Bustard to the Indian Pangolin, The Habitats Trust is making a difference where it matters most.
Marriage and Family
In 2009, Roshni married Shikhar Malhotra, who currently serves as the Executive Director of HCL Technologies and Vice Chairman of HCL Healthcare. Their partnership is built on mutual respect, shared values, and a deep commitment to family and philanthropy.
Together, they have two sons—Armaan, born in 2013, and Jahaan, born in 2017. Despite their demanding careers, Roshni and Shikhar prioritize family time. Whether it’s school events, vacations, or quiet evenings at home, they make it a point to be present for their children.
Hobbies & Interests
Long before she stepped into boardrooms, Roshni Nadar found her rhythm in music. She is a trained classical musician, and though her professional life took a different path, music remains a grounding force in her life. It’s not uncommon for her to unwind with a tanpura or lose herself in a raga after a long day of meetings.
Music, for Roshni, is more than a hobby—it’s a form of meditation. It teaches discipline, patience, and emotional expression, all of which have subtly influenced her leadership style. In interviews, she’s often spoken about how music helps her stay centered and connected to her inner self.
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