Renowned NRI industrialist and philanthropist Lord Swraj Paul, founder of the UK-based Caparo Group, passed away in London at the age of 94 on Thursday evening. Surrounded by family during his final moments, his demise marks the end of an extraordinary life dedicated to industry, philanthropy, and public service.
From Jalandhar to the House of Lords
Born in Jalandhar, Punjab, Lord Paul moved to the United Kingdom in the 1960s seeking treatment for his daughter Ambika, who was battling cancer. Though Ambika tragically passed away at the age of four, her memory inspired him to establish the Ambika Paul Foundation, which has since donated millions towards education, health, and children’s welfare worldwide.
“The London Zoo is where she was always the happiest,” Lord Paul had fondly recalled just last month at the annual commemoration at the Ambika Paul Children’s Zoo in London.
Philanthropy Rooted in Personal Loss
Lord Paul endured several personal tragedies — the loss of his son Angad Paul in 2015 and wife Aruna in 2022. Yet, each loss deepened his commitment to charitable work, leaving a legacy of compassion that touched lives across continents.
Industrial Giant
A peer in the UK’s House of Lords, Lord Paul was also one of Britain’s most prominent industrialists. His Caparo Group, headquartered in London, operates across 40 sites worldwide in steel, engineering, and industry, with strong operations in the UK, North America, India, and the Middle East.
A regular in the Sunday Times Rich List, he was ranked 81st in 2025 with an estimated net worth of GBP 2 billion. Today, his son Akash Paul serves as Chairman of Caparo India and Director of the Caparo Group.
Tributes Pour In
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, calling Lord Paul’s passing a “deep loss.” In a post on X, PM Modi wrote:
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Swaraj Paul Ji. His contributions to industry, philanthropy and public service in the UK, and his unwavering support for closer ties with India will always be remembered. I fondly recall our many interactions. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
A Life Remembered
From building a global business empire to dedicating his fortune to children’s welfare and education, Lord Swraj Paul’s journey was one of resilience, generosity, and vision. His legacy will endure in the institutions he built, the causes he championed, and the countless lives he touched.
