Azim Premji - A Lifestory
A Visionary Leader who Built a Global Technology Empire while Championing Social Responsibility
Azim Premji is an Indian businessman and philanthropist, widely recognized as the chairman emeritus of Wipro Limited, one of India's largest IT companies. He is also known for his significant contributions to education and social causes through the Azim Premji Foundation. He transformed Wipro from a family-owned vegetable oil business into a global IT powerhouse. Taking over the company at just 21 after his father’s sudden death in 1966, Premji expanded Wipro into consumer products before shifting to technology in the 1980s. His forward-thinking decision to enter the IT industry turned Wipro into one of India’s leading software services firms. A visionary leader, he focused on quality and innovation, earning global recognition. In addition to his business success, Premji is known for his deep commitment to philanthropy. Through the Azim Premji Foundation, established in 2001, he has donated billions to improve education in India. In 2010, he became the first Indian to sign the Giving Pledge, dedicating most of his wealth to charitable causes. Premji retired in 2019, leaving a legacy of business excellence and societal impact, making him one of India’s most respected figures.
