Billionaire Profile
A
Global Rank
#2990

Image: Guy's Hospital, London | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Ashwin Desai

CEO, Specialty chemicals
INDIA
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.129B
Estimated based on Specialty chemicals stock value as of March 6, 2026
+5.1% (24h)
Age
74
Source
Specialty chemicals
Industry
Manufacturing
Citizenship
INDIA

Biography

Ashwin Desai is an Indian billionaire and the founder of Aether Industries, a specialty chemicals manufacturer. Born in 1951, he has built a significant fortune through his entrepreneurial ventures in the chemical industry. His source of wealth is primarily from specialty chemicals, and he is a self-made billionaire. With a career spanning decades, Desai has achieved significant milestones, including taking Aether Industries public in 2022. He is known for his hard work and dedication, which have propelled him to the top of the list of the richest people in Surat, India. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Mumbai University.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Ashwin Desai's early life was marked by a modest upbringing. He grew up in a modest family and faced numerous challenges. He was born in Durban, South Africa, on 15 January 1959. He completed his schooling in the mid-1970s. Desai's father had an umbrella manufacturing business, but Desai was drawn to chemical engineering.

Rise to Success

Ashwin Desai's entrepreneurial journey began in 1976 when he started a specialty chemical business with his brother-in-law. In 2013, he founded Aether Industries, focusing on the production of specialty chemicals. The company delivers high-quality chemicals to various sectors, including agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and oil and gas. In June 2022, Desai took Aether Industries public, raising $103 million. This move propelled him into the billionaire's club. Ashwin Desai has been recognized as the wealthiest individual in Surat.

Key Business Strategies

Aether Industries has focused on producing specialty chemicals for industries such as agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and oil and gas. The company operates two factories in Gujarat. Aether has established itself as a key supplier. Aether primarily operates under three business models: large-scale manufacturing of its own intermediates and specialty chemicals, contract research and manufacturing services (CRAMS), and exclusive contract manufacturing.

Philanthropy

Information on his specific philanthropic initiatives and amounts is not available in the search results.

Career Milestones

1976

Co-founded a specialty chemical business

Started a chemical business with his brother-in-law.

2010

Distinguished Alumnus award by Indian Chemical Technology

Awarded the Distinguished Alumnus award by Indian Chemical Technology.

2013

Founded Aether Industries

Founded Aether Industries, a specialty chemical manufacturer.

2022

Aether Industries IPO

Took Aether Industries public, raising $103 million.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Unknown

Unknown

Undisclosed

Philanthropic information is not available

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""Those who are brilliant and those who are hardworking. I belong in the second category, and I take pride in that.""

Leadership Principles

Hard work

Believes in the value of hard work and dedication.

Technocrat

Views himself as a core engineer or technician

Controversies & Challenges

2024

Fire at Aether Industries

A fire broke out at Aether Industries' chemical storage tank, causing the company's shares to drop by 8.50% and a decline in market cap.