The business world was left in shock after the sudden demise of Agnivesh Agarwal, son of Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal, who passed away at the age of 49 following a cardiac arrest in New York. The tragic incident occurred while Agnivesh was recovering from injuries sustained during a skiing accident in the United States.
Recovery was underway before the unexpected turn
According to family statements, Agnivesh was admitted to Mount Sinai Hospital in New York after the accident and was said to be recovering well. Doctors and family members believed that the worst phase was over. However, fate took an unexpected turn when a sudden heart attack claimed his life, leaving his loved ones devastated.
Anil Agarwal calls it the darkest day of his life
Expressing deep grief, Anil Agarwal described the loss as “the darkest day” of his life. In an emotional message shared publicly, he said his son was healthy, full of dreams, and deeply committed to meaningful work. “To me, he was not just my son. He was my friend, my pride, my world,” Agarwal said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expresses condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his grief over the tragic loss. In a condolence message shared on X, the Prime Minister said that he was deeply saddened by the passing away of Agnivesh Agarwal and extended his heartfelt condolences to Anil Agarwal and the bereaved family. The Prime Minister prayed for strength and courage for the family during this extremely difficult time, acknowledging the pain of losing a loved one so suddenly.
A journey from Patna to global business leadership
Agnivesh Agarwal was born on June 3, 1976, in Patna, and received his early education at Mayo College, Ajmer. He later went on to build a successful career in business, establishing Fujeirah Gold and eventually becoming Chairman of Hindustan Zinc, one of India’s leading mining companies. He also served as chairperson of Talwandi Sabo Power Ltd, a Vedanta subsidiary.
Remembered as a grounded and compassionate individual
Despite his achievements, Agnivesh was remembered by his family as a simple and warm human being. Anil Agarwal said his son believed strongly in building a self-reliant India and often spoke about giving back to society. Reaffirming that belief, Agarwal renewed his pledge to donate more than 75 percent of his earnings for social causes.

Industry and well-wishers express condolences
Messages of condolence have poured in from industry leaders, employees, and well-wishers across the country. Many remembered Agnivesh as a forward-thinking leader with a humane approach to business and life.
A loss felt beyond the family
Agnivesh Agarwal is survived by his father Anil Agarwal and sister Priya Agarwal, who is on the board of Vedanta Ltd and serves as chairperson of Hindustan Zinc Ltd. His untimely death has left a deep void, not only within his family but also in India’s corporate landscape.
