INTRODUCTION

Rakesh Gangwal, an affluent Indian-American billionaire entrepreneur, is an inspirational figure, having amassed his wealth primarily through his involvement with InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of India's leading budget airline, IndiGo. As the co-founder and 25% partner of IndiGo Airlines, Gangwal's journey to success has been marked by diligence and continuous self-improvement.

EARLY LIFE

Born on July 25, 1952, in Kolkata, India, Gangwal later moved to the United States in 1977, becoming a naturalized American citizen. His family background is not extensively documented, but he completed his education at Don Bosco School in Park Circus, Kolkata. Graduating in 1975 from the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, he furthered his education at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, earning an MBA.

CAREER

Gangwal's career trajectory is characterized by diverse roles. From 2002 to 2003, he engaged in various entrepreneurial activities, followed by serving as chairman, president, and CEO of Worldspan Technologies from June 2003 to August 2007. Concurrently, he co-founded and holds a 37% ownership stake in IndiGo Airlines, aiming to create a world-class airline with a focus on exceptional customer service, employee satisfaction, and shareholder value.

Having initiated his airline career in 1984 with United Airlines, Gangwal ascended to executive roles, ultimately becoming the Chief Executive and Chairman of US Airways Group. His extensive experience also includes roles at Air France, Ford Motor Company, and Philips India Ltd.

The IndiGo Airlines venture, co-founded with Rahul Bhatia in 2005, took flight in 2006 with a 50-50 partnership. Leveraging Gangwal's expertise, the airline flourished, becoming India's largest by market share. Between 2011-2015, it generated a staggering one and a half billion dollars, securing its position as Asia's 7th most extensive and successful company in 2014.

PERSONAL LIFE

Rakesh Gangwal's personal life revolves around his marriage and daughter, Parul, who ventured into the software industry and established Wheelhouse Capital in June 2021. His philanthropic endeavors include a significant donation of 100 crores to establish a school of medical sciences and technology at IIT Kanpur, showcasing his generosity.

ACHIEVEMENTS

Ranked 359th on the Forbes 400 list of the richest people in America in 2020, Gangwal's achievements extend beyond financial success. Despite his resignation from the board of IndiGo Airlines in 2022, citing personal reasons, his legacy endures as a testament to dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Rakesh Gangwal serves as an inspiring example for those seeking to emulate a path of determination and achievement in their professional and personal lives.

CONNECTION WITH IITK

Gangwal has graduated from IIT Kanpur in 1975 after doing his BTech in Mechanical Engineering and he has donated 100 crore focused towards the institute’s school of medical sciences and technology , this is one of the biggest donations IIT has ever received and Gangwal has also been conferred with the Distinguished Alumnus Award of IITK