Family businesses are the cornerstone of many economies, built not only on strategy and profits but on shared values and generational trust. The Hinduja family exemplifies this legacy, with Mr Ajay Hinduja, a key member of the Hinduja Family and his daughter, Ms Ninya Hinduja, a dynamic duo leading the way into the next chapter of their multi-generational business.
At a summit for next-gen leaders, they discussed family business structures, intergenerational dynamics, diversity, and the importance of giving back. They delved into a raw and insightful personal window.
A Century of Legacy, A Future of Possibilities
Founded in 1914, the Hinduja Group operates in the automotive and healthcare industries. It is guided by a deep-rooted entrepreneurial spirit, adaptability, and the enduring family ethos of “Work to Give.”
Mr. Ajay Hinduja highlighted how growing up in a family business environment shaped his perspective, “When you’re part of a family business, you get involved at a very young age. It’s lunchtime conversation, dinner table conversation; you hear it all around you, and it’s in your blood.” For him, the business wasn’t something he stepped into – it was something he was born into.
Reminiscing about his early career, he shared how juggling education, and work helped him cultivate a comprehensive understanding of theoretical concepts and practical experience: “I started working in college. I went to meetings between classes – learnt and absorbed as much as possible.”
Swiss resident Ajay Hinduja further asserted the belief that flexibility is the key to success in the long run. He emphasized openness to experience, constant learning, and change. Looking into the future of the enterprise, he identified the massive potential of India’s digital economy when he declared, “India has more than 900 million people with smartphone access. That’s a giant entertainment, finance, and health opportunity. Together, we work to be a digital player wherever we can be.”
He then pointed out the unfulfilled potential in India’s financial market where fintech is only beginning, the nation remains vastly underinsured, and markets for investments hold immense growth opportunities. The Hinduja Group is seeking these opportunities aggressively and projecting an expansion of its presence in financial services.
Carrying the Hinduja Family’s baton forward, Ms. Ninya Hinduja, representing the next generation of leadership, discussed striking a balance between conventions and progress. She acknowledged the hurdles but also spoke about the benefits of working alongside family, “Being a part of a family business has its challenges but also has advantages. We can have a greater impact together through more honest communication, common goals and the desire to succeed mutually.”
Being a strong and vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion, Ninya underscored the need for proactive change within organizations, stating, “I hope to bring more diversity to the workplaces I am affiliated with. I believe it is important to see yourself as part of the change and to take a step in the right direction, however small or big that step is.”
Ajay Hinduja concluded that true legacy is not merely about personal wealth but about its impact on others. He believes a lasting legacy is built through meaningful contributions that outlive an individual’s lifetime, fortifying the Group’s philosophy of using business as a force for good.
The Hinduja father-daughter dialogue is a compelling example of how history can serve as a springboard for innovation and how deep-rooted family values can drive meaningful global change. Their observations reveal that a family business is successful only when it strikes a balance between maintaining tradition and being open to new ideas, respecting the past while remaining flexible, and developing individual strengths to reach a collective goal.
Key Takeaways for the Next Generation
Start early and stay curious. Early exposure to business builds confidence and intuition. Balance custom with change, respecting tradition while embracing innovation. Family businesses thrive on shared purpose, honest communication, and collective growth—champion diversity for better-informed decision-making. Legacy is defined by your impact, not just what you inherit.
As the Hinduja Group advances on its global journey, the powerful fusion of extensive experience and pioneering insights drives a lasting impact across industries and generations.
