He Was Mukesh Ambani’s Right-Hand Man, Earning ₹750000000 a Year—Now He’s a Monk. Guess His Name…
He Was Mukesh Ambani’s Right-Hand Man, Earning ₹750000000 a Year—Now He’s a Monk. Guess His Name...
Former Reliance VP Prakash Shah and wife Naina Shah take Diksha, choosing a life of spiritual renunciation over corporate success
Prakash Shah, once among the most trusted aides of Mukesh Ambani and a senior figure at Reliance Industries, has chosen an extraordinary path. At the peak of his corporate career, drawing an annual salary of ₹75 crore, Shah has renounced all worldly possessions and responsibilities to embrace monkhood alongside his wife, Naina Shah.
Shah, who held the post of Vice President in the Project Division at Reliance, played a pivotal role in several of the company’s landmark initiatives, including the Jamnagar Petcoke Gasification Project. With a strong academic background in chemical engineering and postgraduate credentials from IIT Mumbai, he rose through the ranks to become one of the cornerstones of Reliance’s success story.
Known for his sharp intellect and leadership, Shah’s decision to take ‘Diksha’, a spiritual vow of renunciation and pursuit of salvation has surprised many in the business world. His transformation from a high-powered executive to a monk was marked by simplicity and conviction. He now lives barefoot, wears simple white garments, and depends on alms for sustenance.
The couple took initiation on the auspicious day of Mahavir Jayanti, aligning their spiritual journey with Jain traditions. Shah’s decision, while deeply personal, was not sudden. He had long harbored the desire to take Diksha, but the plan was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, one of his sons had already chosen the spiritual path, while his other son is married and has a child.
This powerful life shift from boardrooms to spiritual retreat is being seen as a profound reminder that success, even at the highest level, doesn’t necessarily fulfill the soul’s deeper call. Prakash Shah’s journey reflects a growing trend among high achievers choosing purpose and peace over power and possessions.
