Introduction:

India’s business landscape is buzzing with new trends, innovation, sustainability and digital advancement. As they lead one of the world’s most important roles in economies, CEOs are driving their companies into growth as they manage global challenges such as technological disruption. These are leaders who craft policies that affect jobs, the direction of industry and our nation’s future. This article is about the top 10 founders and CEOs in India who are leading the industry with their ideas, success stories, and approaches.

S. N. Subrahmanyan 

S. N. Subrahmanyan is the head of Larsen & Toubro, a tech leader in engineering and construction. L&T has constructed everything from roads and bridges to factories. Subrahmanyan joined L&T as an engineer and climbed up the ladder with his extraordinary talent and hard work. 

The way he handled L&T helped them acquire many big projects in India, including the State of Unity. He aims to increase investment in AI and sustainable building methods to assist India in growing stronger. His “Lakshya 2026” roadmap is targeting huge revenues and merging L&T Infotech with Mindtree to form LTIMindtree.

Sanjiv Puri 

Sanjiv Puri heads ITC Limited, a company that makes everything from cigarettes to hotels and food. The company has expanded to more areas under his leadership. The firm has reached areas including farming, paper, and health foods, too. Puri has shifted the firm’s focus towards producing healthier options, such as organic snacks and wellness products. ITC has expanded online sales and entered new markets like plant-based foods. The company also helps farmers with better seeds and tech. His goal is to expand globally and use tech for better products by blending tradition with modern ideas.

Anish Shah 

Anish Shah is the Managing Director and CEO of Mahindra & Mahindra. It is an automotive and tech leader. The company is currently concentrating on electric vehicles (EVs) and agritech. Anish had experience in finance that helped him elevate Mahindra to the next level. Mahindra is building electric vehicles at an affordable cost structure. Fortune India named him “Best CEO” of 2025 for being an innovative thinker. Mahindra’s growth in exports shows its global vision. Anish Shah keeps the company going smoothly even during tough times like supply chain issues.

Sandeep Kalra 

Sandeep Kalra is the leader of Persistent Systems, an information technology company that provides businesses with software and digital tools. Persistent was a key figure this year in AI and cloud computing. Under Kalra, Persistent Systems has evolved from a small technology partner to a full-stack, digital transformation powerhouse serving large enterprises around the globe. 

He joined Persistent in 2019 and soon advanced to chief executive, managing through the pandemic with remote work solutions. These days, Persistent works with multinational firms on projects like cybersecurity and data analysis. Under his leadership, the company has doubled in size and brought jobs to India.

Salil Parekh 

Salil Parekh is leading one of India’s top IT giants, Infosys. He has been a huge figure behind their success. Infosys makes software services for businesses around the world. The company is at the forefront of AI, blockchain and digital transformation led by him. Parekh has a deep understanding of client requirements, and that is what makes Infosys a reliable partner. The firm invests in training programs designed to re-educate workers in cutting-edge technologies such as machine learning. Infosys has been expanding, with healthcare and finance deals.

Dilip Shanghvi 

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, India’s largest generic drug maker, was founded and is headed by Dilip Shanghvi. Shanghvi began with small psychiatric drugs and turned them into a multi-billion-dollar acquisition through savvy deal-making and research. He focuses on affordable generics and new drugs. During health crises, Sun Pharma increased production of key medicines. Shanghvi invests in R&D to fight diseases like cancer. He aims for more new drugs and expansions in the upcoming years, making healthcare better for millions.

Praveer Sinha 

Praveer Sinha is the chief executive of Tata Power, a major player in India’s power sector that is part of the massive Tata Group. Tata Power produces power from coal, wind and solar. The company is moving toward clean power, like solar. Praveer has built more solar farms and EV charging stations. He also won the CEO of the Year for green growth in 2025 from Business Today. Sinha aims to make India energy-independent with green sources. Tata Power leverages tech like smart grids to save power.

Satish Pai 

Satish Pai is the managing director and chief of multinational aluminium and copper producer Hindalco Industries, an Aditya Birla Group company. It has a vital function in sectors like automobiles and packaging. Pai has worked with Hindalco to increase its efficiency and grow the business. Hindalco is also targeting aluminium recycling to reduce waste. Under Pai’s leadership, the firm has become more resilient in tough market conditions and added value for India.

Rajeev Jain  

Rajeev Jain is leading Bajaj Finance, a leader in loans and financial services. The company helps millions with easy credit for homes, bikes, and more. Jain took Bajaj from a financial company to a global leader. The financial platform uses smart tech to offer features like quick loans. Bajaj Finance provides insurance and investment options via its app. Jain focuses on customer trust and digital tools. The company has earned high profits under his leadership while serving underserved areas, boosting India’s economy.

Puneet Chhatwal 

Puneet Chhatwal is the CEO of IHCL, which runs the famous Taj Hotels. Its other products include luxury hotels and resorts, and budget accommodation. Chhatwal also helped the company grow with new brands such as Ginger, which is positioned for affordable travellers. The company offers online bookings and health safety features. IHCL now has more eco-friendly properties with solar power. The company is growing fast under Puneet, helping India grow tourism.

Conclusion:

These CEOs show how hard work and smart ideas drive success and help the country develop. In 2026, they will drive India to move forward with innovation with sustainable practices. The article mentioned some of the top CEOs and founders in India whose stories inspire us all to dream and work hard to solve real problems and help India grow. They operate companies that not only solve global challenges but also create employment for millions.  

FAQs:

Who are the top CEOs in India?

The list usually includes leaders from tech, finance, manufacturing, and consumer sectors who showed strong business performance.

Why is S. N. Subrahmanyan considered a top CEO?

He has led L&T to major growth in engineering, construction, and technology services.

What makes Sanjiv Puri a leading CEO?

Under his leadership, ITC has expanded its FMCG, hotel, and agricultural businesses.

How has Anish Shah helped Mahindra & Mahindra grow?

He strengthened the company’s automotive, farm, and financial sectors with strong strategic planning.

Why is Sandeep Kalra recognised in the list?

He has driven significant digital and global growth for Persistent Systems.

What is special about Salil Parekh’s leadership at Infosys?

He expanded Infosys’ digital services and improved global client relationships.

Why is Dilip Shanghvi on the list?

As the founder and CEO of Sun Pharma, he built it into one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies.

How has Praveer Sinha contributed to Tata Power?

He has focused on renewable energy and sustainability, helping the company’s long-term growth.

What has Satish Pai achieved at Hindalco?

He strengthened Hindalco’s position as a global leader in aluminum and copper manufacturing.

Why is Rajeev Jain included in the list?

He transformed Bajaj Finance into one of India’s fastest-growing financial companies with innovative lending models.

What makes Puneet Chhatwal a top CEO?

He revived IHCL’s hotel business with new strategies, improved hospitality services, and strong brand growth.