Sahara Group chief Subrata Roy dies at 75

Sahara Group chief Subrata Roy passed away on Tuesday at the age of 75 due to a cardiorespiratory arrest following a prolonged illness. The chairman of Sahara India Pariwar was admitted to Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital & Medical Research Institute on Sunday after a deterioration in his health.

He passed away at the hospital at 10.30 pm on Tuesday due to a cardiorespiratory arrest following an extended battle with complications arising from metastatic malignancy, hypertension, and diabetes, according to a company statement.

“It is with profound sadness that Sahara India Pariwar informs the demise of our Hon’ble ‘Saharasri’ Subrata Roy Sahara, Managing Worker and Chairman, Sahara India Pariwar,” the group said in the statement.

Describing Roy as an “inspirational leader and visionary”, the statement said. “His loss will be deeply felt by the entire Sahara India Pariwar. Saharasri ji was a guiding force, a mentor, and a source of inspiration for all who had the privilege to work alongside him.” 

Sahara India Pariwar is committed to upholding Roy’s legacy and will continue to honor his vision in driving the organization, the statement added.

Born in Araria, Bihar on 10 June 1948, Subrata Roy’s is the quintessential story of rags to riches. He founded Sahara India Pariwar, which started as a small venture dealing in finance and gradually expanded into a conglomerate with interests spanning real estate, media, entertainment, and more. As Sahara India Pariwar grew, he became one of India’s most influential and controversial business magnates. 

Sahara also made a foray into the sports industry as it sponsored Indian cricket and hockey teams for years. After the launch of the Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket, he also briefly owned the Pune Warriors India franchise. The group also owned a Formula One racing team, Sahara Force India, from 2012–2018. 

However, Subrata Roy’s success was marred by controversies and legal battles. In 2014, he was arrested on the order of India’s Supreme Court over accusations related to financial irregularities and an alleged failure to comply with market regulations. Roy’s imprisonment led to a significant period of legal proceedings and regulatory challenges for the Sahara Group.