Agarwal’s story is a reminder that even the most successful global business leaders often start with modest beginnings and big dreams
Anil Agarwal, founder of the Vedanta Group and one of the world’s richest non-resident Indians (NRIs), recently shared a rare glimpse into his life in London and the humble beginnings that shaped his journey. Despite his immense wealth today, Agarwal’s early days in the UK were far from luxurious, reported curlytales.com.
Speaking in a recent interview to Kamiya Jani, he recalled that when he first moved to London, he stayed in a modest bed-and-breakfast above Paddington Station. For just £7 a night, he had a simple bed with clean sheets, a shared toilet, and a basic breakfast of cornflakes, toast, tea and coffee. Laughing about those days, he said that this was where his life abroad truly began.
Agarwal also spoke about his childhood belief that “dress and address” matter greatly.
“Growing up in Bihar, he had heard that having the right address was important for success. When he learned that Mayfair, near Buckingham Palace, was one of the most prestigious areas in London, he decided that one day he would live there. That childhood dream eventually became reality,” the report said.
Today, he owns a grand historic mansion in London, close to Buckingham Palace. He revealed that the house is more than a century old and has a rich history. It was once home to prominent families, including the Rothschilds, and later passed through Iranian royalty before coming into his ownership about 30 years ago.
Agarwal said he has preserved the building’s original character, making only minor changes such as updating the furniture. The mansion features grand dining and conference rooms that were once used as royal study rooms, and its interiors reflect classic royal elegance.
