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LeaderPortfolio
Billionaire Profile
Onkar Kanwar
Global Rank
#2737

Image: Government of India | GODL-India | via Wikimedia Commons

Onkar Kanwar

CEO, Tires
INDIA
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.428B
Estimated based on Tires stock value as of April 20, 2026
-0.99% (24h)
Age
83
Source
Tires
Industry
Diversified
Citizenship
INDIA

Biography

Onkar Kanwar, born in 1942, is an Indian billionaire renowned for his leadership of Apollo Tyres, a multinational tire manufacturing company. His source of wealth is from Tires. Kanwar's career began in the family business, which he joined after studying at the University of California. He played a pivotal role in transforming Apollo Tyres from a regional player into a global entity with a presence in over 100 countries. Kanwar's achievements include receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the All India Management Association in 2024. His net worth is estimated at $1.4 Billion.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Onkar Kanwar was born in March 1942 in Sialkot, British India (present-day Pakistan). He is the eldest son of Raunaq Singh, the entrepreneur who co-founded Apollo Tyres. Following the partition of India in 1947, Kanwar's family migrated to India. They initially faced hardships before settling in Delhi.

Rise to Success

After earning degrees in science and administration from the University of California, Kanwar joined the family business in 1964. He took on a leadership role during a financially challenging period, including the 1975 Emergency in India. He has since transformed Apollo Tyres into a global company.

Key Business Strategies

Kanwar has led Apollo Tyres to become a major player in the tire industry. He has overseen the company's expansion through strategic acquisitions and global market penetration. Key moves include the acquisition of Vredestein Banden in 2009, expanding their presence in Europe. In 2013, Kanwar aimed to make Apollo a global player, with a $2.5 billion purchase of Cooper Tire & Rubber.

Philanthropy

Onkar Kanwar supports various philanthropic initiatives. Apollo Tyres has a HIV-AIDS awareness and prevention program for the trucking community. The company's CSR efforts also invest in education and skill development.

Career Milestones

1964

Joined Family Business

Joined the family business after completing his studies.

1972

Co-founded Apollo Tyres

Founded Apollo Tyres along with his father.

2002

Took Control of Apollo Tyres

Took control of Apollo Tyres after a public dispute with his father, focusing on tire manufacturing and global expansion.

2024

Received Lifetime Achievement Award

Awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award from the All India Management Association

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Health

HIV-AIDS Awareness Program

Undisclosed

Implemented through Health Centres in major trans-shipment hubs across India.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Leadership Principles

Innovation

Guiding principle for Apollo Tyres, implemented in product, marketing, R&D and manufacturing.

Quality

Emphasis on providing quality tires.

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