Gautam Adani, a self-made billionaire and one of India’s leading industrialists, is the founder and chairman of the Adani Group, a multinational conglomerate involved in diversified industries including energy, ports, logistics, agribusiness, real estate, and aerospace.
Early life
Born on June 24, 1962, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Adani came from a modest background, with his family running a small textile business. Adani dropped out of college to pursue entrepreneurial ambitions, starting his career as a diamond trader in Mumbai before returning to Ahmedabad to manage his brother’s plastic business.
Leap into business
In 1988, he founded Adani Exports, which later became Adani Enterprises, the flagship company of the Adani Group. Over the decades, he diversified into infrastructure development, specifically renewable energy, ports, and transportation.
Despite his massive success, Adani’s journey has not been without controversy, facing criticism for alleged crony capitalism and environmental challenges related to his projects. His rise to becoming one of the richest people globally exemplifies ambition, strategic thinking, and resilience.
Adani’s story is often viewed as a testament to the possibilities of entrepreneurship in India’s rapidly transforming economic landscape, inspiring both admiration and debate.
Fortunately, a collection of books offers insights into his life, business strategies, and the larger socio-political dynamics at play. Here’s a curated list of must-read books for those looking to understand the man, his empire, and the forces that drive him.
Before you proceed with the list, do note that while no single book captures all aspects of his story, they collectively offer a foundation for readers to form their own opinions.
By R.N. Bhaskar
This biography published by Penguin Random House blends storytelling with hard business data to explore Adani’s evolution from modest beginnings to becoming a global business magnate. It delves into his ventures in renewable energy, ports, and more while shedding light on his motivations and strategies.
Key Takeaways:
- Detailed anecdotes from Adani’s early life and business initiation.
- Insights into his decision-making and entrepreneurial mindset.
- A balanced mix of biography and business analysis.
By Quentin Beresford
Focused on the controversy surrounding the Adani Carmichael coal mine, this UNSW Press book investigates the socio-political and environmental impact of Adani’s ventures in Australia. It juxtaposes Adani’s business ambitions with the grassroots #StopAdani movement, offering a gripping narrative.
Key Takeaways:
The environmental and political stakes of coal mining.
A deep dive into Adani’s influence on Australian politics.
The clash between economic interests and environmental conservation.
