Kaun Banega Crorepati 17: Industrialist Kumar Mangalam Birla on legacy, trust and ties with late Ratan Tata

Kumar Mangalam Birla, Ratan Tata

Industrialist Kumar Mangalam Birla recently appeared on an episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati 17, where he spoke candidly about his family values, personal journey and the deep rooted relationship between the Birla and Tata families. In conversation with host Amitabh Bachchan, the Aditya Birla Group chairman shared anecdotes that highlighted trust, legacy and mutual respect.

Kumar Mangalam Birla talks about his father and grandfather

Recalling his upbringing, Birla spoke about the influence of his late father Aditya Kumar Birla and his grandfather B K Birla. "My grandfather and father always believed that business should be built on values, not just numbers," he said, adding that discipline and ethics were ingrained in him from an early age. "Those lessons stay with you for life," Birla noted.

During the episode, Birla opened up about the close ties his family shared with Ratan Tata and the Tata household. He revealed that at one point, the Birla family held more shares in some Tata companies than the Tata group itself. "Itna bharose ka rishta tha," Birla said, stressing that the association was founded on trust rather than control or rivalry.

On his bond with Ratan Tata

Speaking about the bond between his grandfather and J R D Tata, Birla said, "Their relationship was not transactional. It was built on respect, affection and shared values." He added that the warmth between the families continued across generations. "Even my interactions with Ratan Tata have always been guided by simplicity and mutual admiration," he said.

Birla also praised Ratan Tata's personal qualities, calling him "a man of integrity and compassion." He added, "He always placed people and principles above profit, and that is something I deeply respect."

Amitabh Bachchan observed that the names Tata and Birla are often mentioned together when people speak about India's industrial history. Responding to this, Birla said, "Both families have always believed in nation building. Business was never just about growth, but about giving back to society."

The episode concluded on an emotional note, with Birla expressing gratitude for the legacy he has inherited. "I feel fortunate to be part of a lineage where trust, humility and responsibility come first," he said, leaving viewers with a glimpse into the values that continue to shape one of India's leading business leaders.