Benu Gopal Bangur, a name synonymous with immense wealth and success, stands as Kolkata’s richest resident, despite not being originally from the city. The former chairman of Shree Cement, he boasts a net worth of approximately $7.6 billion (around Rs 63,120 crore). His fortunes come from his large ownership stake in Shree Cement, a leading Indian cement company. While Kolkata is home to many billionaires, it is Bangur, hailing from Rajasthan, who tops the list.
A Legacy Rooted in Business Excellence
The Marwari community, known for its business acumen, is central to Bangur’s legacy. His family’s business journey started in the late 1800s when his grandfather, Munge Ram Bangur, and his great uncle, Ram Koover Bangur, laid the foundation for the Bangur business empire. By the mid-20th century, the family had emerged as one of India’s top business houses, spanning multiple industries. However, it was Shree Cement, founded in 1979 in Jaipur, that became the cornerstone of Benu Gopal’s immense wealth.
Growth of Shree Cement
Initially headquartered in Jaipur, Shree Cement eventually shifted its base to Kolkata. Over time, it expanded to become one of the top cement producers in India. Following a family division in the 1990s, Benu Gopal gained control of Shree Cement, which thrived under his leadership. The company’s success helped Bangur surpass even prominent billionaires like N.R. Narayana Murthy and Nusli Wadia in terms of personal wealth.
Today, Shree Cement is known not only for its massive production capacity but also for its significant contributions to India’s infrastructure growth. It remains one of the top names in the cement industry, continuing to play a pivotal role in the nation’s development.
Educational Roots and Family Leadership
Benu Gopal Bangur, who graduated with a B. Com (Hons) degree from the University of Calcutta, recently stepped down from his role as chairman of Shree Cement at the age of 92. His son, Hari Mohan Bangur, now leads the company as chairman. Hari Mohan is a chemical engineer from IIT Bombay, and his own son, Prashant Bangur, is actively involved in the business as vice-president. Prashant’s education includes an MBA in Finance and Logistics from the Indian School of Business, Hyderabad, and a Mathematics Honours degree from St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata.
The Bangur Family and Kolkata’s Industry
The Bangur family’s connection to Kolkata is more than just wealth. Kolkata, often called the City of Joy, has long been a hub for industries such as steel, mining, cement, and minerals. Many of these industries are either directly or indirectly influenced by Bangur’s business empire. His wealth and influence stretch far beyond just cement, as the family’s investments have played a crucial role in shaping Kolkata’s economic landscape.
Wealth, Property, and Lifestyle
Though he has passed on the leadership to the next generation, Benu Gopal Bangur continues to live in Kolkata, residing in a luxurious mansion that spans 51,000 square feet. The mansion includes a home theater, gym, and other lavish amenities, befitting a man of his immense wealth.
Despite his vast fortune, Benu Gopal’s journey from a Rajasthani family to becoming the richest man in Kolkata is a testament to hard work, business acumen, and the continuation of a proud legacy.
