From the Brink of Collapse to Corporate Glory: His ₹36,000 Crore Journey Has a Bollywood Link
From the Brink of Collapse to Corporate Glory: His ₹36,000 Crore Journey Has a Bollywood Link
Nikhil Nanda, Chairman and Managing Director of Escorts Kubota Limited, has emerged as a prominent force in Indian industry, seamlessly blending his rich Bollywood lineage with forward-thinking business leadership. Born on March 18, 1974, in New Delhi, Nanda represents a rare confluence of tradition and innovation, steering one of India’s leading engineering conglomerates to new global heights.
Bollywood Heritage Meets Corporate Strategy
Nanda’s deep roots in the Indian film industry are widely recognized. He is the maternal grandson of cinematic legend Raj Kapoor and the son of Ritu Nanda, positioning him as a cousin to Bollywood stars Ranbir Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Karisma Kapoor. In 1997, his marriage to Shweta Bachchan Nanda, daughter of Bollywood icons Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan, further cemented his ties to the film world. Their children, Agastya and Navya Naveli Nanda, are also making waves in entertainment and entrepreneurship, carrying forward the legacy with a modern twist.
Academic Excellence and Business Acumen
Nanda’s educational journey began at the prestigious Doon School in Dehradun and continued at the renowned Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he specialized in business management with a focus on finance and marketing. His academic foundation laid the groundwork for his future corporate successes.
In 1997, Nanda joined Escorts Limited, taking on the role of director and group Chief Operating Officer. His strategic insights and leadership qualities led to his appointment as Joint Managing Director in 2007 and subsequently as Managing Director in 2013. Following the passing of his father, Rajan Nanda, in 2018, he took the helm as Chairman and Managing Director.
Strategic Alliances and Global Expansion
One of Nanda’s most notable achievements was orchestrating a strategic partnership with Japan’s Kubota Corporation in 2021. This collaboration culminated in the rebranding of the company as Escorts Kubota Limited in 2022. The alliance has significantly strengthened the company’s presence in agricultural machinery, construction equipment, and railway components, paving the way for global expansion and technological advancement.
Industry Leadership and Market Impact
As of 2025, Escorts Kubota Limited boasts a market capitalization exceeding ₹42,000 crore, a testament to its robust growth and industry leadership. The company continues to thrive under Nanda’s visionary leadership, driven by a diverse product portfolio, operational excellence, and a commitment to innovation.
A Legacy Reimagined
Nikhil Nanda exemplifies the balance between heritage and progress. With a deep respect for his illustrious family background and a sharp focus on business transformation, he has redefined what it means to lead in modern India. His journey stands as a powerful example of how legacy, when combined with strategic vision and resilience, can create enduring success.
