Billionaire Profile
G. Rajendran
Global Rank
#1979

Image: Ministry of Information and Broadcasting | GODL-India | via Wikimedia Commons

G. Rajendran

CEO, Jewellery
INDIA
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.054B
Estimated based on Jewellery stock value as of March 6, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
83
Source
Jewellery
Industry
Fashion & Retail
Citizenship
INDIA

Biography

G. Rajendran, a prominent figure in the Indian jewelry industry, is the founder of GRT Jewellers. Born in 1941, he is a self-made billionaire known for his success in the fashion-retail industry. With an estimated net worth of $2.1 Billion as of April 1, 2025, Rajendran's career began in 1964 with a small jewelry showroom in Chennai. His dedication and customer-focused approach have propelled GRT Jewellers to become a leading brand in South India, with diverse business interests including hospitality, education, and renewable energy.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

G. Rajendran hails from a family of jewelers. He was born in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, and began his journey in the jewelry business with a small showroom in Chennai in 1964. This marked the beginning of GRT Jewellers, originally known as GR Thangamaaligai.

Rise to Success

Rajendran's focus on customer satisfaction and quality has been central to his success. His dedication transformed a modest start into a significant jewelry empire. The company expanded steadily, opening a larger store in 1979. GRT Jewellers is now a well-known brand in Chennai and across South India.

Key Business Strategies

The key to GRT Jewellers' success has been Rajendran's commitment to customer satisfaction and providing high-quality products. The company offers a wide range of jewelry collections, including gold, diamond, platinum, and silver, appealing to a broad customer base. GRT has also expanded its business interests to include hospitality, hotels & resorts, agriculture, Eco-friendly energy sources like solar and wind energy, and educational institutions.

Philanthropy

Rajendran has also invested in giving back to society by setting up schools, colleges, and trusts. Though the exact amounts are not available, it is known that he is involved in several philanthropy initiatives.

Career Milestones

1964

Founded GRT Jewellers

Established GRT Jewellers (GR Thangamaaligai) in Chennai.

1979

Expansion

Opened a larger store, marking a significant expansion for GRT Jewellers.

2020

Forbes List

Featured in Forbes' list of India's Richest.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

GRT Institute of Engineering and Technology

Unknown

Chairs the GRT Institute of Engineering and Technology located outside Chennai.

Social Welfare

Setting up schools, colleges, and trusts

Unknown

Invests in giving back to society by setting up schools, colleges, and trusts.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Leadership Principles

Customer Satisfaction

Emphasizes customer satisfaction as a core value for building a trustworthy brand.