Mukesh Ambani donated ₹151 Crore to His College

Mukesh Ambani Gives ₹151 Crore to His College A Billionaire’s Tribute to His Teachers and Roots In a world where corporate titans often focus on expansion, profits, and global influence, India’s richest man, Mukesh Ambani, recently made headlines for something deeply personal and profoundly traditional.

During the launch of the biography “Divine Scientist”, dedicated to the legendary chemical engineering professor Dr. M.M. Sharma, Ambani stood on stage not as the chairman of Reliance Industries, but as a former student, offering gratitude. In front of students, faculty, and national dignitaries, he announced a donation of ₹151 crore to his alma mater the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai.

The gesture wasn’t just a donation it was a tribute. A tribute to teachers, to learning, and to the quiet but powerful force of mentorship.

Back to Where It All Began

Mukesh Ambani, who studied at ICT in the 1970s, recalled his time at the institute with emotion and clarity. He spoke of the professors who shaped his thought process—Prof. M.M. Sharma, the man whose biography was being celebrated, and Prof. J.B. Joshi, another towering figure in chemical engineering education.

“These men,” Ambani said, “weren’t just teachers. They were nation-builders, who shaped thousands of minds. Whatever I am today, I owe a large part of it to ICT and its extraordinary faculty.”

He described ICT not just as a campus, but as a crucible of innovation, where he first began to understand the impact that science, chemistry, and engineering could have on society. It was here, Ambani said, that he learned to combine vision with precision two principles that would later define Reliance.

A Guru Above All

What made this announcement even more special was Ambani’s deeply cultural approach. He didn’t frame the donation in terms of corporate social responsibility or publicity. Instead, he tied it back to Indian values.

“In our tradition,” he said, “Guru is equal to Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. A teacher is not just someone who gives you knowledge, but someone who gives you direction in life.” His voice softened as he turned toward Prof. Sharma, seated in the front row. “Sir, I am what I am because of your blessings. This ₹151 crore is not a donation it is Guru Dakshina.”

An Unconditional Gift

What made headlines wasn’t just the amount it was the unconditional nature of the gift. Mukesh Ambani placed no restrictions, no clauses, no conditions on how the ₹151 crore should be used.

“Use it to build labs, fund scholarships, enhance research, expand infrastructure whatever you believe ICT needs,” he told the institute. “This is my faith in the institution, and in its future.”

The gesture stunned the academic community. At a time when many institutions struggle with funding and resources, Ambani’s act brought not just money but hope.

A Family of Philanthropists The ₹151 crore contribution is part of a much larger story the Ambani family’s growing focus on philanthropy.

Reactions from the Academic World

Soon after the announcement, tributes were streaming in from all over India's academic circles. Many lauded Ambani as a rare case of a pupil going back to give back to the institution that shaped him.

The ICT campus was jubilant. Students went on social media to express their gratitude to Ambani. Professors, who had spent decades in teaching, hailed it as a proud moment for Indian education.

Prof. Sharma, the subject of the biography "Divine Scientist," was visibly touched. "This is the strength of the teacher-student relationship," he said, "and Mukesh has done justice to all the teachers in the nation by making this gesture."

Not Just Business A Legacy

For years, Mukesh Ambani has been referred to as the face of India's largest private business. With him at the reins, Reliance Industries has evolved from a basic petrochemical business to a technology, telecom, and retail giant influencing millions of lives.

But moments like these remind one that Ambani is not only a business legend he's an individual who has not forgotten his roots.

Though his businesses such as Jio, Reliance Retail, and the refinery at Jamnagar have rendered him a household name, it's such actions of his that speak volumes for character more than career.

A Message for Young India

Ambani also spoke directly to students during his address. "No matter where life leads you, never forget your teachers," he urged. "The true wealth of a nation isn't in its GDP or market cap it's in its classrooms.

He urged young minds to pursue excellence, construct fearlessly, and return with humility.

"Whatever you do," he told them, "remember that someone once ignited a spark in you. Never forget that spark."

Final Words

₹151 crore can be just a figure. But behind the figure is a story of respect, of mentorship, of tradition, and of gratitude.

Mukesh Ambani did not donate money. He donated the message that no matter how far you go up, you are tallest when you bow before your roots.