Sri Prakash Lohia: The Visionary Indian Businessman Who Built a Global Industrial Empire
From Kolkata’s Textile Roots to a Billion-Dollar Petrochemical Powerhouse
Introduction
Sri Prakash Lohia is one of the most influential Indian businessmen of modern times — a name synonymous with ambition, resilience, and global industrial success. Born in Kolkata, India, and later making Indonesia his base, he rose from humble beginnings in the textile trade to become a billionaire industrialist. As the Founder and Chairman of Indorama Corporation, his journey exemplifies the transformation from a local entrepreneur into an international business leader.
This article explores the inspiring story of Sri Prakash Lohia, highlighting his early life, education, family, business ventures, and global legacy. It also uncovers the challenges and triumphs that shaped his remarkable career — a blend of positive vision, hard work, and calculated risk-taking that turned him into one of the wealthiest Indian-origin figures in Asia.
Quick Bio
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sri Prakash Lohia |
| Date of Birth | 11 August 1952 |
| Age (2025) | 73 years |
| Birthplace | Kolkata, West Bengal, India |
| Citizenship | Indonesian |
| Ethnicity | Marwari (Indian origin) |
| Education | Bachelor’s Degree, University of Delhi |
| Profession | Industrialist, Businessman |
| Company | Indorama Corporation |
| Position | Founder & Chairman |
| Industry | Textiles, Petrochemicals, Fertilizers |
| Net Worth (2025) | Approx. US$8.7 Billion |
| Spouse | Seema Lohia (née Mittal) |
| Children | Amit Lohia, Shruti Hora |
| Award | Pravasi Bharatiya Samman (2012) |
| Residence | London, United Kingdom |
Early Life and Education
Born on 11 August 1952 in Kolkata, Sri Prakash Lohia was raised in a traditional Marwari business family. His father, Mohan Lal Lohia, was already an established textile trader, which gave young Sri Prakash early exposure to business operations and entrepreneurship. Growing up in post-independence India, he witnessed the economic challenges and opportunities that shaped his understanding of trade and industry.
He graduated from the University of Delhi, earning a bachelor’s degree that equipped him with the fundamentals of finance and commerce. His academic years were marked by curiosity and a strong desire to explore global opportunities — an ambition that would soon lead him beyond Indian borders.
Beginning of a Global Journey
In 1973, at just 21 years of age, Sri Prakash Lohia moved with his father to Indonesia. It was a bold decision — leaving behind a familiar environment for an emerging market filled with uncertainty. Together, they established a small yarn-spinning company, which became the seed of what is now the Indorama Group.
By 1976, they had founded Indorama Synthetics, focusing initially on manufacturing spun yarns. What began as a modest textile venture soon expanded rapidly under Lohia’s leadership. His sharp understanding of market trends and consistent reinvestment in technology helped the company move into the production of polyester fibres and PET resins by the late 1980s.
Expansion into Global Markets
During the 1990s and 2000s, Sri Prakash Lohia transformed Indorama into a truly global enterprise. He diversified beyond textiles into petrochemicals, fertilizers, and industrial products, making the company a major player across continents. His foresight in identifying demand for PET resins and polyesters positioned Indorama as one of the largest producers in the world.
In 2006, the company took a major leap by acquiring a massive olefin plant in Nigeria, expanding its reach into Africa’s energy and manufacturing sectors. This acquisition marked the birth of Indorama Corporation, headquartered in Singapore, which now operates across more than 39 countries and employs over 50,000 people.
Family and Personal Life
Behind the success of this remarkable Indian businessman is a strong and supportive family. Sri Prakash Lohia is married to Seema Lohia (née Mittal), who comes from another influential Indian business family — she is the sister of steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal. Together, they have two children: Amit Lohia, who serves as Vice Chairman of Indorama Corporation, and Shruti Hora, who is also engaged in family interests.
Despite his immense wealth, Lohia is known for his humility and privacy. He divides his time between London and other business hubs, remaining deeply involved in strategic decision-making while delegating daily operations to his experienced leadership team.
Achievements and Recognition
Sri Prakash Lohia has been recognized globally for his business leadership and contributions to industrial growth. In 2012, he was honored with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, the highest award given by the Indian government to overseas Indians.
His achievements are not limited to profit-making; he has also supported causes in education, healthcare, and cultural preservation. His passion for rare books and coloured lithographs has made him one of the most significant private collectors in the world.
Business Philosophy and Leadership Style
Lohia’s leadership style is a balance of discipline, vision, and adaptability. He believes in sustainable growth — focusing on innovation, modern infrastructure, and environmental responsibility. His decision to expand Indorama into Africa and other developing economies reflects his commitment to creating value in emerging markets rather than just established ones.
He is also known for empowering local workforces and fostering long-term partnerships. This strategic approach has helped him maintain a positive reputation across countries while navigating challenges like fluctuating markets and industrial competition.
Legacy and Global Impact
The legacy of Sri Prakash Lohia extends far beyond financial success. He represents the global reach of Indian entrepreneurship, proving that an Indian businessman can build an empire that competes on the world stage. From the streets of Kolkata to the boardrooms of London, his story is a symbol of persistence and global vision.
Today, Indorama’s contribution to job creation, industrial innovation, and sustainable development stands as a testament to his far-reaching influence. His balanced approach — blending traditional business values with global expansion — continues to inspire new generations of entrepreneurs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sri Prakash Lohia is more than a billionaire industrialist; he is a symbol of how determination, integrity, and vision can turn challenges into opportunities. From his modest beginnings in India to leading a multi-billion-dollar corporation, he has proven that success is built on persistence, smart diversification, and ethical leadership.
His journey reflects both the positive side of ambition — creating jobs, industries, and innovation — and the challenges of managing a vast international enterprise. Yet through it all, his name remains synonymous with excellence, making him one of the most respected Indian businessmen of the 21st century.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Sri Prakash Lohia?
Sri Prakash Lohia is an Indian-born Indonesian businessman and the Founder & Chairman of Indorama Corporation, a global leader in textiles, petrochemicals, and fertilizers.
2. What is Sri Prakash Lohia’s net worth in 2025?
According to Forbes, his estimated net worth in 2025 is approximately US$8.7 billion.
3. Where was Sri Prakash Lohia born?
He was born in Kolkata, West Bengal, India on 11 August 1952.
4. What are Sri Prakash Lohia’s major business ventures?
He is the founder of Indorama Corporation, which operates across 39 countries in industries such as textiles, petrochemicals, and fertilizers.
5. What is his biggest achievement?
Transforming a small textile operation into a global industrial empire and receiving the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman (2012) for his contribution to international business and philanthropy.
6. Where does he currently live?
He resides primarily in London, United Kingdom, while managing his global business operations.
7. What is the legacy of Sri Prakash Lohia?
His legacy is defined by innovation, global expansion, and responsible industrial leadership, making him one of the most respected Indian-origin entrepreneurs worldwide.
