Inside the Life of Anil Agarwal: From Scrap Metal to a Mayfair Mansion

Anil Agarwal, the billionaire founder and chairman of Vedanta Resources, is a man whose life story reads like a manual for unyielding grit. From the dusty streets of Patna to the elite corridors of London’s Mayfair, Agarwal has built an empire valued at over ₹2.6 lakh crore ($31.4 billion).

Vedanta Resources founder Anil Agarwal .
Vedanta Resources’ billionaire founder and chairman, Anil Agarwal, considered the richest man in Bihar, and his luxurious London home. (Photo Credit: Google)

In a recent virtual tour, the “Fourth Richest NRI” opened the doors to his opulent London residence—a home that seamlessly blends high-tech British luxury with deep-rooted Indian spirituality.


The Anil Agarwal Mayfair Mansion: A Blend of Two Worlds

Situated in one of the most expensive neighborhoods globally, Agarwal’s home is more than just a residence; it’s a cultural bridge. While the exterior reflects classic British architecture, the interior is steeped in “quiet luxury” and Indian tradition.  

  • The “Ballroom that Swims”: The home’s most talked-about feature is a subterranean banquet hall. At the press of a button, the solid marble floor descends, and water rises to transform the space into a luxury swimming pool. This engineering marvel allows the family to host bhajans and business dinners one hour, and enjoy a wellness suite the next.

  • The Spiritual Sanctuary: Despite his global status, Agarwal remains “Desi at heart.” The house features a dedicated prayer space and a stunning glass-enclosed conservatory filled with exotic plants, used for morning tea and family spiritual reflection.

  • The Glass Elevator: To navigate the multi-story layout, a custom-designed glass elevator connects the grand entertaining levels with private quarters.


A Journey of Resilience: Patna to London

Anil Agarwal’s journey began in 1954 in Patna, Bihar. He famously left home at age 19 with nothing but a tiffin box and a bedding roll, heading for Mumbai.                                               

Wealth Summary (2026)

  • Total Net Worth: ~$4.9 Billion

  • India/Global Ranking: Ranked as the 4th richest Non-Resident Indian (NRI) globally and the wealthiest individual from Bihar.

PhaseMilestone
The StartBegan as a scrap metal trader in the 1970s, collecting industrial waste.
First SuccessAcquired Shamsher Sterling Corporation in 1976 with a bank loan.
Global ExpansionFounded Sterlite Industries in 1986; listed Vedanta on the London Stock Exchange in 2003—the first Indian firm to do so.
Current StatusControls a diversified empire spanning Zinc, Aluminium, Oil & Gas, and Power.

“Our fundamental DNA is Indian, and I am never ashamed of that,” says Agarwal.


Revenue Streams

Anil Agarwal’s wealth is built on a complex web of industrial assets managed through his holding company, Volcan Investments.

Asset / StreamDetail
Vedanta Limited (VEDL)Significant dividends; the company paid out approximately ₹44,000 crore in dividends in 2024-25.
Hindustan Zinc (HZL)Vedanta holds a majority stake in one of the world’s largest zinc-lead-silver producers.
Real EstateOpulent properties in Mayfair (London), Mumbai, and New York.
New VenturesMulti-billion dollar investments in Semiconductors and display glass manufacturing in Gujarat.

Anil Agarwal Business Snapshot: Vedanta Limited (VEDL)

As of February 2026, Vedanta remains a titan in the natural resources sector. Despite personal tragedies, including the recent passing of his son Agnivesh Agarwal, the chairman has renewed his commitment to his business and philanthropy.

Vedanta Stock Performance (Current Data as of Feb 6, 2026)

  • Share Price (NSE): ₹671.05

  • Market Cap: ₹2,62,269 Cr

  • 52-Week Range: ₹363.00 – ₹769.80

  • Dividend Yield: 6.49% (Known for being one of India’s best dividend-paying stocks).

Strategic Outlook 2026

The company is currently undergoing a massive demerger plan to split its diversified segments into independent listed entities (Aluminium, Oil & Gas, Power, and Steel). This move aims to unlock shareholder value and allow pure-play investments in specific commodities.


The “75% Wealth Pledge”

In a significant development in January 2026, following the tragic passing of his son, Agnivesh Agarwal, Anil Agarwal renewed his commitment to donate the vast majority of his fortune.

  • The Promise: He has pledged to give away 75% of his wealth to social causes, fulfilling a shared vision he had with his son.

  • Philanthropic Focus: The funds are being channeled through the Anil Agarwal Foundation, focusing on:

    • Project Nand Ghar: Modernizing 4,000+ Anganwadis across India.

    • Healthcare & Nutrition: Massive investments in child welfare and eradicating malnutrition.

    • Women’s Empowerment: Providing skill development and financial independence to women in rural India.

His transition from “Promoter” to “Trustee” marks a new chapter where his legacy will be defined not by the size of his mansion, but by the impact of his philanthropy.

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