Daijiworld Media Network- London
London, Aug 22: Renowned NRI industrialist and philanthropist Lord Swraj Paul, founder of the UK-based Caparo Group of Industries, passed away in London on Thursday evening at the age of 94. He had been ailing for some time and was recently hospitalised. Surrounded by his family, Lord Paul breathed his last peacefully.
Born in Jalandhar, Lord Paul went on to build Caparo Group, a steel and engineering multinational with operations spread across the UK, North America, India, and the Middle East. His son, Akash Paul, currently serves as Chairman of Caparo India and Director of the Caparo Group.
A regular name in the Sunday Times Rich List, Lord Paul was ranked 81st this year with an estimated wealth of GBP 2 billion.
Paying tribute, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief on X: “Deeply saddened by the passing of Swaraj Paul Ji. His contributions to industry, philanthropy and public service in the UK, and his unwavering support for closer ties with India will always be remembered. I fondly recall our many interactions. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
Lord Paul, despite frail health in recent months, continued to be an active presence in the House of Lords, reflecting his deep commitment to public life.
His journey to the UK began in the 1960s, when he sought treatment for his daughter Ambika, who tragically passed away at the age of four. In her memory, he established the Ambika Paul Foundation, which has since contributed millions towards the welfare of children and youth worldwide through education and health initiatives.
In later years, Lord Paul endured personal tragedies with the loss of his son Angad Paul in 2015 and his wife Aruna Paul in 2022, yet he channelled his grief into further philanthropic initiatives in their memory.
Lord Swraj Paul leaves behind a towering legacy as a visionary industrialist, philanthropist, and statesman, remembered both in India and abroad for his unwavering contributions to industry, society, and the Indian diaspora community.