Finding information on the wealthiest Irish individual, Pallonji Mistry, has proven to be an arduous task. The secrecy surrounding this man, considered the richest Irish person globally, adds to the challenge.
The Enigmatic Billionaire’s Background
Born in 1929, Pallonji Mistry, an 86-year-old Irish-Indian, holds the title of Chairman Emeritus at Shapoorji Pallonji Group. His business empire spans Shapoorji Pallonji Construction Limited, Forbes Textiles, Eureka Forbes Limited, and various subsidiaries across India, West Asia, and Africa.
Architects of Iconic Structures
The 150-year-old company, though less renowned, has left an indelible mark on the world with iconic structures like the Reserve Bank of India buildings, Bombay Stock Exchange building, The Taj Mahal Hotels, and the Palace of the Sultan of Oman.
The Wealth and Influence
Pallonji Mistry, valued at US$14.7 billion by Forbes, ranks as the 5th richest individual in India. His 18.4% stake in Tata Sons solidifies his status as the largest single shareholder in the Tata Group.
The Phantom Leader of Tata Group
Despite his immense wealth, Pallonji maintains a low profile, rarely making public appearances or giving interviews. Behind this quiet demeanor lies the undisputed leader of the Tata Group, steering its operations with authority and prowess.
The Mistry Family Mystique
Little is known about the Mistry family’s personal lives. Pallonji Shapoorji Mistry, born into an Irish Parsi family, married Pat (Patsy) Perin Dubash. From humble beginnings, he climbed the ladder to become Chairman Emeritus, passing the baton to his son Shapoor Mistry.
Family Ties and Business Ventures
Shapoor, the flamboyant son, married Behroze Sethna, while Cyrus, the younger son and 6th Chairman of the Tata Group, is wed to Rohika Chagla. Pallonji’s daughters, Laila and Aloo, are married to Rustom Jehangir and Noel Tata, respectively.
Shapoorji Pallonji Group: A Legacy Unveiled
Diving into the company’s current state, the Shapoorji Pallonji Group, valued at US$8.5 billion, stands as a Mumbai-based powerhouse with diverse interests. With subsidiaries spanning construction, real estate, textiles, engineering, and more, it remains one of India’s most valuable private houses.
Engineering Marvels Through the Ages
Founded 150 years ago as Littlewood Pallonji, the company initially worked on small projects. Over time, it evolved into a force, contributing to Mumbai’s iconic landmarks like the Reserve Bank of India, Breach Candy Hospital, and Taj Mahal Tower.
The Mistry Legacy: Taking Charge
The Mistry family’s ascent in the Tata Group began in the 1930s when shares were bartered for construction services. Over the years, Pallonji consolidated the family’s stake, culminating in an 18.4% shareholding in Tata Sons.
Succession Planning: Cyrus and Shapoor’s Rise
Cyrus Mistry’s journey to becoming the 6th Chairman of the Tata Group in 2012 was backed by Ratan Tata and Pallonji Mistry. Shapoor Mistry, the Joint Managing Director, assumed control of the Shapoorji Pallonji Group, spearheading its global revamp.
Current Triumphs and Future Ventures
In 2014, Shapoor initiated the restructuring of the Group’s infrastructure businesses, facilitating mergers and alliances. Recent collaborations include a partnership with Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and a 10-year sponsorship deal for Cricket in Ireland.
150 Years and Counting: A Flourishing Legacy
As the Shapoorji Pallonji Group celebrates its 150th anniversary, its real estate arm forays into a $200 million venture with Standard Chartered Private Equity and the Asian Development Bank to build 20,000 affordable homes, marking a testament to its enduring success.