New Delhi: Arunachalam Vellayan, 72, widely respected Indian businessman and former Chairman of Murugappa Group, died on Monday. Shocked and saddened is how people in the world of business describe their feelings as he was known for his simplicity, sharpness of mind, and strong leadership.
A Long and Influential Journey with Murugappa Group
A. Vellayan came from the well-known Murugappa family, which runs one of India’s oldest business groups. The group is more than 120 years old and works in many industries like agriculture, finance, cycles, sugar, and fertilizers. He belonged to the fourth generation in this family and played a very important role in shaping the modern direction of the group.
Even belonging to a powerful business family, he is remembered as ever-humble and hard-working. He studied at good schools and colleges in India and abroad, and utilized his knowledge for the growth of the company in a steady and smart way.
Under his chairmanship, the Murugappa Group diversified into newer areas but also strengthened its older businesses. He believes in discipline, plans ahead, and does business honestly and fairly. Most people who have worked with him claim that he never hurried over decisions. He always heard, discussed, and then made a decision-and that too, one that was good for the company and its people.Moreover, he was on the board of many other renowned companies within the group. He was deeply involved in businesses such as fertilizers, chemicals, and sugar, exerting much effort to make these a success.
Family and Personal Life
After his retirement as chairman, he served as Chairman Emeritus in that major company connected with the group, where his guidance and support continued, even for the young leaders.
A. Vellayan was known for supporting education and industry bodies. He was part of several important business associations and also served in roles that helped improve management education in India. Many young business leaders looked up to him because he worked with honesty and followed strong values.People who met him often say that he had a calm personality and a warm smile. He believed that a company should grow not only in size but in culture. He encouraged teamwork, respect, and long-term thinking.
He is survived by his wife, two sons, and his grandchildren. The family has had a close association with the leadership of the group and holds various key positions in the group’s business. They said that he had been ill for some time and his death was a personal loss to them.
A Big Loss for Indian Industry
The death of A. Vellayan is seen as a big loss for Indian business. He played an important role in maintaining the Murugappa Group’s reputation as a trusted and value-driven company. His steady leadership helped the group face difficult times and yet continue to grow. Many business leaders from across India have voiced sadness, saying he was a strong businessman but also a kind human being. His style of guidance, his balanced thinking, and relationship building will be remembered for years. A Legacy That Will Live On. Late A. Vellayan, though no longer with us, his teachings and values will endure. The ideas he believed in will be carried forward by the next generation of leaders in the family and company: honesty, discipline, respect, and long-term vision.
