The second son of Ghanshyam Das Birla, Krishna Kumar Birla was born in Pilani on 11 November 1918. A prominent industrialist and politician, he spent nearly nine decades navigating the intersection of Indian commerce and governance. His career spanned from the era of the British Raj to the economic liberalisation of the late twentieth century, leaving a significant imprint on several sectors.
Industrial Leadership
Krishna Kumar Birla served as group chairman of the Zuari-Chambal group and held the chairmanship of Zuari-Chambal-Paradeep. His reach within the Indian economy extended to the central board of both the State Bank of India and ICICI. Furthermore, he presided over the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industries, the Indian Sugar Mills Association, and various sports federations, including the Bridge Federation of India and the Indian Lawn Tennis Association.
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In 1984, Birla joined the Congress Party and secured election to the Rajya Sabha under the leadership of Indira Gandhi. He remained a Member of Parliament for three terms, concluding his service in 2002. Beyond legislative duties, he was appointed to the National Integration Council twice, once in 1980 and again in 2004, serving under the chairman of the council.
Cultural and Academic Contributions
Birla was a Hindi Prabhakar, reflecting his proficiency in the language. In 1991, he established the K.K. Birla Foundation to support the development of Hindi literature. Pondicherry University awarded him a degree of Doctor of Letters in 1997. His literary output includes works such as Indira Gandhi: Reminiscences and Partner in Progress and his autobiography, Brushes With History.
Final Years
Married to Manorama Devi for 67 years, Birla resided primarily at Birla Park in Kolkata. Following his wife's passing on 29 July 2008, he died at the same residence on 30 August 2008, succumbing to pneumonia and age-related ailments. At the time of his death, his net worth was estimated at 11,000 crore rupees.
Fast facts
- Born: 11 November 1918, Pilani
- Died: 30 August 2008, Kolkata
- Spouse: Manorama Devi
- Political Party: Congress Party
- Education: Hindi Prabhakar
- Net Worth: 11,000 crore INR (2008)
- Religion: Hinduism
Questions readers ask
What industries did Krishna Kumar Birla manage?
He was the group chairman of the Zuari-Chambal group and held positions within the Indian Sugar Mills Association and various financial boards.
How long did he serve in the Rajya Sabha?
He served three terms as a member of the Rajya Sabha from 1984 to 2002.
