Interviewer: Mukesh Ambani, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. You’ve built Reliance Industries into one of the world’s largest conglomerates, and you’re consistently recognized as one of the most powerful business leaders globally. Let’s start from the beginning. Your journey started in a rather modest setting, and now you’re among the wealthiest individuals in the world. How did your early years in Yemen and India shape your outlook on life and business?
Mukesh Ambani: Thank you, it’s a pleasure to be here. My early years were quite simple, especially when we moved back from Yemen to India. We lived in a small two-bedroom apartment in Mumbai, and though our circumstances improved over time, those formative years taught me the importance of humility, hard work, and determination. My father, Dhirubhai, always instilled in us that success isn’t about where you start but how committed you are to your goals. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my career.
Interviewer: Your father, Dhirubhai Ambani, is a legendary figure in Indian business. You left Stanford to join Reliance at his request. What was it like stepping into the family business, and how did that decision impact your career?
Mukesh Ambani: It was a pivotal moment. I was pursuing my MBA at Stanford, but my father believed that real learning happens in the field, not just in the classroom. When he asked me to return, it was a mix of excitement and responsibility. Reliance was still in its early stages, and I was entrusted with big projects like the Patalganga petrochemical plant. It was challenging, but those experiences helped me understand the intricacies of business and the value of taking calculated risks. It also taught me that success is built on teamwork and innovation.
Interviewer: You’ve been behind some groundbreaking projects at Reliance, such as the Jamnagar refinery and the launch of Jio. What was your vision for these projects, and how did you ensure their success?
Mukesh Ambani: Both Jamnagar and Jio were bold initiatives that required immense planning and execution. With Jamnagar, we wanted to build not just a refinery but an integrated complex that would lead the world in efficiency and scale. It was a long-term vision, and the result was a refinery that today produces 660,000 barrels per day.
Jio, on the other hand, was born out of the desire to democratize the internet in India. We knew that for India to grow digitally, affordable and high-speed internet was essential. The challenge was massive, but we embraced it. The success of Jio lies in our commitment to customer satisfaction, constant innovation, and a strong digital infrastructure that could serve a billion people.
Interviewer: You’ve been credited with transforming India’s telecom landscape with Jio, but you’ve also faced criticism and legal issues, including allegations of market manipulation and pricing irregularities. How do you respond to these controversies?
Mukesh Ambani: As a business leader, criticism is part of the journey, especially when you’re operating at such a large scale. Reliance has always adhered to legal and ethical standards, and we’ve faced challenges head-on. We are transparent in our operations and work closely with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance. It’s important to understand that when you disrupt industries, like we did with Jio, it can generate both praise and scrutiny. We focus on our long-term goals and always aim to contribute positively to India’s development.
Interviewer: You’ve been ranked as one of the top philanthropists in India, and Reliance has played a significant role in corporate social responsibility. How do you view philanthropy and its role in your life and business?
Mukesh Ambani: I believe that with great success comes great responsibility. My family and I are deeply committed to giving back to society, and through Reliance, we’ve taken up initiatives in education, healthcare, and rural development. Our goal is to create long-lasting, sustainable change, especially in areas that are critical to India’s progress. Philanthropy is not just about financial contributions; it’s about creating opportunities and empowering communities.
Interviewer: With your wealth and influence, you also own the Mumbai Indians and have co-founded the Indian Super League. How important is sports to you, and what was the motivation behind investing in Indian sports?
Mukesh Ambani: Sports, for me, are a unifying force. They bring people together and inspire teamwork, dedication, and resilience, values I deeply resonate with. Investing in the Mumbai Indians and co-founding the Indian Super League was part of a vision to uplift Indian sports and provide a platform for young talent to shine. I wanted to help create a sporting culture in India that could compete at the highest levels globally. The success of Mumbai Indians and the growth of football in India through the ISL have been incredibly fulfilling.
Interviewer: You live in Antilia, one of the most expensive private residences in the world. It’s been the subject of fascination and sometimes criticism. What does Antilia represent to you and your family?
Mukesh Ambani: Antilia is our home, and while it may be viewed through many lenses, for us, it’s where we live as a family. Every aspect of it is designed with that in mind – to be a functional and comfortable space for all of us. I understand the attention it has garnered, but at its core, it’s where we share our lives and create memories.
Interviewer: Looking back on your journey, what do you believe has been the key to your success, and what advice would you give to young entrepreneurs in India?
Mukesh Ambani: The key to success, in my view, is perseverance, passion, and a willingness to embrace change. It’s important to have a vision, but equally important to adapt as circumstances evolve. For young entrepreneurs, I would say – dream big, work hard, and never be afraid of failure. India is a land of immense opportunity, and with the right mindset, you can achieve anything.
Interviewer: Thank you, Mukesh, for sharing your journey and insights with us today. It’s been a privilege to hear your story.
Mukesh Ambani: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure to be here and share my thoughts.
