Rs 300 job, started business with Rs 500…here’s how Dhirubhai Ambani built Rs 1652000 crore business empire

Dhirubhai Ambani’s journey from selling snacks to establishing one of the world’s largest conglomerates remains an enduring source of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Born on December 28, 1932, in a modest family in Gujarat, Dhirubhai Ambani’s journey from humble beginnings to building a corporate empire is a tale of determination and ambition.

Growing up in a financially constrained household, Dhirubhai Ambani’s education was limited to the 10th grade. To support his family, he started selling fruits and fritters. However, realizing the need for better opportunities, he moved to Aden, Yemen, in 1948 with the help of his elder brother Ramaniklal.

At the age of 16, Dhirubhai took up a job at a petrol pump in Aden, earning Rs 300 per month. His hard work earned him a promotion to manager. Yet, he was not content with the job and  thought of starting his own business.

Returning To India With Rs 500

After working in Yemen for six years, Dhirubhai returned to India in 1954 with just Rs 500 in his pocket. At that time, this amount held significant value. He relocated to Mumbai, a city known for its bustling opportunities, and set out to make his mark.

The Beginning of Reliance

Dhirubhai identified two promising markets, first one was the growing demand for polyester in India and the popularity of Indian spices abroad. Teaming up with his cousin Champaklal Damani, he established Reliance Commercial Corporation in a rented room in Mumbai. This small space, equipped with a table, three chairs, and a writing pad, became their first office. They began exporting spices like turmeric and ginger to Western countries.

Expanding The Business

With time, Dhirubhai expanded his business operations. In 1966, he set up a textile mill in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, under the name Reliance Textiles. He also launched the iconic Vimal brand, which gained massive popularity. Gradually, he diversified into plastics, petrochemicals, and power generation.

Evolution Of Reliance Industries

In 1985, Reliance Textiles Industries Limited was rebranded as Reliance Industries Limited. By 1991-92, the company established its first petrochemical plant in Gujarat, marking its foray into the petrochemical industry. Between 1998 and 2000, Reliance built the world’s largest refinery in Jamnagar, Gujarat, solidifying its dominance in the energy sector.

Legacy And Achievements

Dhirubhai Ambani passed away on July 6, 2002, after elevating Reliance Industries to unparalleled heights. Soon after his demise, the company was split between his two sons, Mukesh Ambani and Anil Ambani.

Today, under Mukesh Ambani’s leadership, Reliance Industries is India’s most valuable company, with a market capitalization of ₹16.52 lakh crore, according to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). Despite a 5% dip in share prices this year, Reliance continues to lead in several sectors, including energy, telecom, and retail.