The Indian community in the UK and across the world is mourning the passing of Lord Swraj Paul, the Jalandhar-born industrialist, philanthropist, and parliamentarian, who died in London on 21 August 2025 at the age of 94.
Born in Punjab in 1931, Swraj Paul’s journey was one of resilience and determination. From his father’s modest foundry in Jalandhar, he went on to study at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States. His life took a defining turn in the 1960s when he moved to Britain for his daughter’s treatment. Following her tragic loss, he channelled his grief into building Caparo Group, a global business empire with interests in steel, engineering, and automotive manufacturing.
Lord Paul never forgot his Indian roots. Awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1983, he became a symbol of how members of the Indian diaspora could succeed abroad while remaining deeply connected to their homeland. His bold takeover bids of Indian companies in the 1980s shook corporate India, leading to the formation of the famous “Bombay Club.” Yet, he always emphasised cooperation, modernisation, and the importance of India-UK business ties.
Elevated to the House of Lords in 1996, he went on to serve as its Deputy Speaker, becoming one of the most respected voices of the Indian community in Britain. His generosity extended far beyond business—he supported universities in both the UK and India, funded children’s causes, and set up charitable initiatives in memory of his late daughter Ambika, his wife Aruna, and son Angad.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi led tributes, describing him as “an outstanding industrialist and philanthropist whose work to strengthen India’s ties with the UK will always be remembered.”
For the Indian diaspora in Britain, Lord Paul was more than an industrialist. He was a bridge between two cultures, a proud son of Punjab who carried India in his heart wherever he went. His story of turning personal tragedy into global good will inspire generations of Indians at home and abroad.
Lord Swraj Paul leaves behind a legacy of enterprise, service, and generosity—a true testament to the strength of India’s global community.
Image credit: Parliament
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