Billionaire Profile
Bhadresh Shah
Global Rank
#1588

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Bhadresh Shah

CEO, AIA Engineering
IN
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.5B
As of December 2025
Age
74
Source
Engineering
Industry
manufacturing
Citizenship
IN

Biography

Bhadresh Shah, a 74-year-old engineering alumnus of IIT Kanpur, is the founder and Managing Director of AIA Engineering. His career began with a small foundry, which he transformed into a world-leading manufacturer of high-chromium grinding parts. With an estimated net worth of $2.5 billion, Bhadresh Shah's wealth source is primarily engineering. He has a proven track record of innovation, leadership, and a dedication to ethical business practices, making him an inspirational figure in the Indian industrial landscape.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Bhadresh Shah, born into a family of doctors, chose a different path, pursuing a Bachelor of Technology in Metallurgical Engineering from IIT Kanpur in 1974. His entrepreneurial journey began in 1976 when he set up a small foundry with a bank loan and assistance from his father. Initially, he faced challenges, even losing all his money in the first year due to poor product quality.

Rise to Success

Undeterred, Shah adapted his business strategy, shifting focus to supplying replacement components for power plants in 1977. In 1979, he partnered with a friend to establish Ahmedabad Induction Alloy (AIA), manufacturing steel alloys and iron castings. A significant turning point came in 1988 when AIA tied up with a Belgian consultancy firm, Slegten SA, for design expertise, leading to joint ventures. Shah's leadership led AIA to become the world's second-largest manufacturer of high-chromium grinding parts for the cement, mining, and power industries.

Key Business Strategies

Bhadresh Shah's business acumen is evident in his strategic decisions. He focused on process improvements, new product development, and maintaining high-quality standards. His commitment to innovation and expansion, including tapping into the global mining sector, has been crucial. Shah's leadership philosophy prioritizes integrity and sustainable practices. He owns around 58.5% shares in AIA Engineering.

Philanthropy

Bhadresh Shah's commitment to ethical business practices extends to community engagement. His dedication to ethical business practices and community engagement reflects his commitment to corporate responsibility.

Career Milestones

1974

Graduated from IIT Kanpur

Received a B.Tech in Metallurgical Engineering.

1976

Founded a Foundry

Started a small foundry to manufacture metal castings.

1977

Shifted Business Focus

Began supplying replacement components for power plants.

1979

Co-founded Ahmedabad Induction Alloy (AIA)

Started manufacturing steel alloys and iron castings.

1991

Formed AIA Magotteaux

Created a joint venture with Magotteaux.

2002

Became Managing Director of AIA Engineering

Took on the role of Managing Director.

2008

Expanded into Mining Sector

Expanded the company's service areas to include the mining sector.

2013

Received Distinguished Alumnus Award

IIT Kanpur conferred upon him the Distinguished Alumnus Award for entrepreneurial excellence.

Controversies & Challenges

2017

Laundering accusations

A former neighbour was accused of attacking Bhadresh Shah with a steel rod.