Meet Baba Kalyani: The Man Behind the Success of Bharat Forge

Biography Of Baba Kalyani

Meet Mr. Babasaheb N. Kalyani, also known as Baba Kalyani. He’s the Chairman & Managing Director at Bharat Forge Limited, a company that makes high-performance components for various industrial sectors, including automotive, power, oil and gas, construction, and aerospace.

In fact, Bharat Forge is the second-largest metal forging company in the world, after Thyssenkrupp of Germany.

Baba Kalyani is one of India’s richest businessmen, and he’s played a huge role in making Bharat Forge super successful.

In 2023, Forbes put him at the 55th position on India’s Richest list.

Let’s explore how Baba Kalyani took Bharat Forge from being a small company to a global manufacturing powerhouse.

Baba Kalyani Early Life 

Babasaheb N. Kalyani, now 75, was born on January 7, 1949, in Pune. He was born into a business family to parents Sulochana and Neelakanth Rao Kalyani. 

His father, Neelkanth Rao Kalyani, founded the Kalyani Group.

The Kalyani Group’s first company, Bharat Forge, was formed on June 19, 1961. That’s where Baba Kalyani’s journey in business began.

Baba Kalyani Education 

Baba Kalyani completed his high school at Rashtriya Military School in Belgaum and also attended Dr. (Mrs.) Erin N. Nagarvala School (formerly National Model School) in Pune. 

He further pursued his education at BITS Pilani, where he earned a BE in Mechanical Engineering in 1970, followed by a Master of Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston, USA.

Philanthropy Work

He is actively involved in various social initiatives and strongly believes that if you’ve succeeded in your work, it’s your responsibility to give back to society. 

He founded and chairs the Pratham Pune Education Foundation, an NGO established in 2000. 

The foundation focuses on offering primary education to children from underprivileged backgrounds in the local community.

Baba Kalyani’s Awards & Recognitions:

  • Padma Bhushan – India
  • Cross of the Order of Merit – Germany
  • Commander First Class of the Royal Order of the Polar Star – Sweden
  • Knight in the Order of the Legion of Honour – France
  • Forge Master conferred
  • International Forging Convention, 2011
  • Doctor of Science (honoris causa) – Deakin University, Australia and IIT Kgp., India

Final words

In conclusion, Baba Kalyani’s story is one of determination, success, and giving back.

From his humble beginnings in Pune to becoming the head of Bharat Forge Limited, he has shown that hard work and vision can lead to great achievements. 

As one of India’s wealthiest businessmen, he hasn’t forgotten his roots. He’s actively involved in philanthropy, aiming to make a positive impact on society. 

His story teaches us the importance of perseverance, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility.

If you enjoy founder success stories and want to inspire others, share Baba Kalyani’s story with your friends and family.

Muskan, a passionate storyteller and social media manager at Startup Forte. With a talent for sharing impactful founder stories, she invites you to explore inspiring journeys with us.

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