Karnataka has been heralded as one of the most dynamic and opportunity-rich states in India. By 2025, the state holds the distinction of spawning among the most influential entrepreneurs and business leaders across industries. From the high-voltage tech hubs of Bengaluru to the emergent cities of Hubballi and Mangaluru, many visionaries have built successful businesses that have created jobs and social footprints.

Featuring the Top 10 Richest in Karnataka, this list does not just depict their significant wealth but also their impact on the industries of technology, real estate, education, health, and media. The women’s and men’s stories speak of resilience, ambition, and an overarching sense of purpose.

1. Azim Premji-Wisdom and Wealth

Net Worth: ₹2,97,000 crore
Business: Wipro (IT Services)

Azim Premji, so far, is Karnataka’s richest person. He turned Wipro into a global giant in IT services, and his philanthropic activities through the Azim Premji Foundation are highly regarded. Even with all his riches, he lives a modest life in Bengaluru and is quite humble.

2. Narayana Murthy – Tech Industry Icon

Net Worth: ₹41,000 crore
Business: Infosys (Co-founder)
Narayana Murthy helped shape India’s IT landscape. A strong advocate for ethics in business, he lives modestly in Bengaluru and continues to guide young entrepreneurs with his wisdom and experience.

3. Irfan Razack – Real Estate Visionary

Net Worth: ₹49,000 crore
Business: Prestige Group

As the head of one of South India’s top real estate firms, Irfan Razack has built commercial hubs, shopping malls, and luxury homes, significantly transforming Bengaluru’s skyline.

4. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw – Biotech Pioneer

Net Worth: ₹29,700 crore
Business: Biocon

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw leads Biocon, a major biotech company. Known for innovation in healthcare, she also supports affordable cancer treatment and medical research.

5. Nikhil Kamath – The Young Billionaire

Net Worth: ₹21,450 crore
Business: Zerodha, True Beacon

At just 37, Nikhil Kamath has redefined online stock trading. His company Zerodha is one of India’s top brokerage firms. He lives in a luxury home and owns premium cars.

6. Kris Gopalakrishnan – Technology Leader and Innovator

Net Worth: ₹35,800 Crores
Business: Infosys (Co-founder), Investor.

Kris was a principal force behind Infosys; now he bestows his support on startups and neurological research within the ambit of the scientific and technological future of India.

7. Ranjan Pai – Education and Healthcare Tycoon

Net Worth: ₹24,750 Crores
Business: Manipal Group

Ranjan has greatly contributed to the edifice of society through Manipal in education and health.

8. Rajesh Mehta – Gold Industry Leader

Net Worth: ₹21,450 Crores
Business: Rajesh Exports

The company is one of the largest exporters of gold in the world, and Rajesh Mehta has turned his passion for business into a worldwide empire.

9. Nandan Nilekani: Tech with Public Purpose

Net Worth: ₹13,200 Crores
Business: Infosys, Aadhaar Project

Nilekani is respected for keeping one foot firmly planted in business leadership and the other in national service. He was instrumental in creating India’s Aadhaar identity system.

10. Vijay Sankeshwar – Transport and Media Baron

Net Worth: ₹10,000 Crores+
Business: VRL Group

From just one truck, Vijay Sankeshwar grew India’s largest logistics set-up and branched out into print and broadcast media.