Sanjiv Goenka is a prominent Indian industrialist and the founder and chairman of the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group (RPSG Group), a diversified conglomerate with interests spanning power, retail, FMCG, media, IT services, and sports. As of May 2025, his net worth is estimated at approximately $4 billion, positioning him among India’s wealthiest individuals.
Early Life and Education
Born on January 29, 1961, in Kolkata, West Bengal, Sanjiv Goenka hails from the illustrious Goenka family, known for its significant contributions to Indian industry. He completed his schooling at St. Xavier’s Collegiate School in Kolkata and earned a bachelor’s degree in commerce from St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata, in 1981.
Establishment of RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group
In 2011, following the division of RPG Enterprises between the sons of Rama Prasad Goenka, Sanjiv Goenka established the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group. Headquartered in Kolkata, the group has grown into a $7 billion enterprise with a diverse portfolio encompassing various sectors.
Business Ventures
Power and Energy
The group’s flagship company, CESC Limited, is a 126-year-old power utility responsible for electricity generation and distribution in Kolkata and Howrah. Under Goenka’s leadership, CESC has been restructured into four separate entities to streamline operations and focus on growth.
Retail and FMCG
RPSG Group’s retail ventures include Spencer’s Retail and Nature’s Basket, catering to diverse consumer needs. In the FMCG sector, the group launched ‘Too Yumm!’, a brand offering healthy snacks, and acquired ‘Evita’ to expand its presence in the packaged foods market.
Media and Entertainment
The group’s media interests are represented by Saregama India Ltd, India’s oldest music label, and Open Magazine, a weekly current affairs publication. Saregama has diversified into film production and digital content under the brand Yoodlee Films.
Information Technology
Firstsource Solutions Limited, a subsidiary of RPSG Group, provides business process management services across various sectors, including banking, financial services, and healthcare.
Sports Investments
Sanjiv Goenka has made significant investments in the sports sector:
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Lucknow Super Giants: An Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise introduced in 2022, reflecting Goenka’s continued interest in cricket.
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Mohun Bagan Super Giant: In 2020, RPSG Group acquired a majority stake in Mohun Bagan Athletic Club, one of India’s oldest football clubs. The club competes in the Indian Super League (ISL) under the rebranded name.
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Manchester Originals: In February 2025, RPSG Group acquired a 70% majority stake in the Manchester Originals franchise of The Hundred competition in England, marking the first time a majority stake in a Hundred team was sold to a private entity.
Leadership and Recognition
Sanjiv Goenka has held several prestigious positions:
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He served as the youngest-ever President of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC).
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He has been involved with academic institutions, including serving as the chairman of the board of governors at IIT-Kharagpur.
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Goenka is also the honorary consul of Canada in Kolkata, reflecting his contributions to international relations.
Personal Life
Sanjiv Goenka is married to Preeti Goenka, and the couple has two children, Shriya and Shashwat. Shashwat Goenka is actively involved in the family business, serving as the Vice Chairman of the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group and holding key positions in various group companies.
Conclusion
Sanjiv Goenka’s visionary leadership has transformed the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group into a diversified conglomerate with a significant presence across multiple sectors. His strategic investments, particularly in power, retail, and sports, have not only expanded the group’s portfolio but also contributed to India’s economic growth. As he continues to explore new opportunities, including renewable energy projects in Northeast India, Goenka’s influence in the business world remains profound.
