Billionaire Profile
R
Global Rank
#1789

Image: Bombay Natural History Society | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Rishad Naoroji

CEO, Consumer goods
INDIA
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.345B
Estimated based on Consumer goods stock value as of April 21, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
74
Source
Consumer goods, real estate
Industry
Fashion & Retail
Citizenship
INDIA

Biography

Rishad Naoroji, a 74-year-old Indian billionaire, is a prominent member of the Godrej family, known for their diversified business interests in consumer goods and real estate. With a net worth estimated at $2.4 billion, he derives his wealth primarily from a one-fifth share of the Godrej family assets. Unlike many in his position, Naoroji has chosen to focus on his passion for ornithology and environmental conservation, founding the Raptor Research and Conservation Foundation. His career is marked by his dedication to wildlife and his contribution to conservation literature, setting him apart in the world of high finance. In 2024, he transferred most of his shares in group companies to his nephews and nieces.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/21/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Rishad Naoroji was born on August 30, 1951, in Mumbai, India, into the well-known Godrej family. His father, Kaikhushru Naoroji, was a businessman who, after retiring from Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI), handled the export trade for Godrej. Rishad's upbringing within a family with deep roots in business and conservation instilled in him a unique perspective, eventually leading him to choose a path diverging from the family's corporate operations.

Rise to Success

Rishad's wealth stems from his inherited stake in the Godrej family's assets. His family's businesses, which include consumer goods, real estate, and agricultural ventures, have generated substantial wealth over generations. However, Rishad has never been actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the Godrej Group. His success is measured not in corporate achievements but in his contribution to the field of ornithology and conservation.

Key Business Strategies

Rishad Naoroji's wealth management strategy revolves around his passive investment in the Godrej Group, a multi-generational enterprise. His focus has been on preserving and growing the family's assets through passive investments and strategic decision-making. His recent decision to gift most of his shares to his nephews and nieces shows his personal investment approach.

Philanthropy

Naoroji's philanthropic efforts are centered on environmental conservation, particularly the protection of birds of prey. He founded the Raptor Research and Conservation Foundation to support research and conservation initiatives across Asia. His work has been pivotal in raising awareness and contributing to the protection of endangered species.

Career Milestones

2011

Founded Raptor Research and Conservation Foundation

Established the foundation to focus on the conservation of Asian birds of prey.

2006

Published 'Birds of Prey of the Indian subcontinent'

Authored the book, establishing himself as a leading authority on the subject.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Environmental Conservation

Raptor Research and Conservation Foundation

Undisclosed

Supports the conservation of Asian birds of prey

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Once you get into that clique (hanging around with corporate honchos), all they talk about are numbers and markets and I get very bored."