“Business should spread happiness.”
— Anil Kariwala
— Anil Kariwala
Growing Up
Anil Kariwala wasn’t born with a silver spoon, but he was raised with values richer than gold. Growing up in a humble family, he learned early in life that discipline, dignity, and Dharma held far more importance than simply chasing success. With dreams larger than the corners of his small Kolkata home, Anil chose a rare academic path—becoming a Chartered Accountant, Cost Accountant, and Certified Public Accountant, all by the age of 21. Yet, he often says that his real education came from life itself.
Building Kariwala Industries
In 1989, Anil founded Kariwala Industries Ltd. with a simple but powerful vision: to spread happiness through ethical business. What began as a small export venture has, over the past three decades, grown into a globally respected enterprise manufacturing eco-friendly bags and workwear, with exports to over 60 countries. For Anil, the company’s greatest strength lies not just in its products, but in its people. Today, more than 1,000 joyful team members work every day to make sustainability not just a goal, but a way of life.
Music, Speaking & Teaching
While business is Anil’s profession, music is his soul. He has recorded 11 albums and performed 5 charity concerts, guided by his belief that joy multiplies when shared. Anil is also a sought-after speaker at global forums, where he addresses themes such as sustainable business practices, purpose-driven leadership, and women empowerment—for which he was honored with a UN Award. His leadership extends beyond his company: Anil has served on the SEDEX Board, mentored young entrepreneurs, and continues to guide emerging businesses through the Stanford Seed Transformation Program, of which he is an alumnus.
What He Believe In
Anil Kariwala believes in doing business with conscience—in blending profit with purpose, and balancing discipline with compassion. He holds that a company’s true strength lies in its culture, and that the most enduring strategy is one where joy, excellence, and values intersect seamlessly. Above all, he believes that every life—and every business—should be a force for good.
His Life Motto
“Earn ethically. Spend meaningfully. Give joyfully.”
