Godrej group splits between two branches of founding family

In a significant development for the 127-year-old Godrej Group, the founding family has agreed to a split, dividing the conglomerate between two branches of the family. 

Adi Godrej and his brother Nadir will retain control over Godrej Industries, which includes five listed firms. Godrej Industries Group — which includes the listed companies – Godrej Industries, Godrej Consumer Products, Godrej Properties, Godrej Agrovet and Astec Lifesciences — will have Nadir Godrej as chairperson and will be controlled by Adi, Nadir and their immediate families.

While, cousins Jamshyd and Smita will take charge of unlisted Godrej & Boyce and its affiliates, along with a substantial land bank, including prime property in Mumbai.

This division marks a pivotal moment for the Godrej family, with Adi and Nadir on one side, and Jamshyd and Smita on the other. The split aims to realign ownership and streamline operations to better serve the differing visions of the family members.

Under the new arrangement, Jamshyd Godrej will lead the Godrej Enterprises Group, comprising Godrej & Boyce and its affiliates. This arm spans multiple industries, from aerospace and aviation to defence, furniture, and IT software. Jamshyd’s sister Smita’s daughter, Nyrika Holkar, will serve as the executive director, and their families will hold control over this division, including the extensive land bank in Mumbai.

Meanwhile, Nadir Godrej will chair the Godrej Industries Group, encompassing listed companies like Godrej Industries, Godrej Consumer Products, Godrej Properties, Godrej Agrovet, and Astec Lifesciences. Adi, Nadir, and their immediate families will oversee operations in this segment.

Looking ahead, Pirojsha Godrej, son of Adi, will play a crucial role as the executive vice chairperson of GIG, slated to succeed Nadir as chairperson in August 2026.

The split comes amidst a backdrop of extensive land holdings, particularly in Mumbai suburbs, where Godrej & Boyce owns substantial real estate, including a sprawling 3,400-acre parcel in Vikhroli. This land bank, estimated to be worth crores of rupees, presents immense development potential, with a significant portion dedicated to conservation efforts due to its ecological significance.

The Godrej family emphasized that the realignment was conducted in a respectful and mindful manner to maintain harmony and drive long-term value creation for shareholders and stakeholders alike. Both branches will continue to operate under the Godrej brand, committed to growing and strengthening their shared heritage.

With a legacy dating back to 1897, the Godrej Group has been driven by a strong purpose of nation-building. This split aims to further enhance growth aspirations and leverage core strengths in engineering and innovation across diverse business portfolios, ensuring the continuation of the family’s values and legacy for generations to come.