The launch of Lycamobile in 2006 marked the beginning of a rapid expansion into the telecommunications sector that reached 16 million customers across 18 countries by 2018. As a founder and chairman, Subaskaran Allirajah transitioned from his early experiences working in family businesses in Paris to establishing a diversified portfolio spanning mobile services, film production, and professional sports ownership.
Early Career and Migration
Born in 1972 in Sri Lanka, Allirajah fled the country as a teenager with his family. After moving to France, he gained early work experience at a family-owned restaurant in Paris and a corner shop. He eventually settled in England, where he became a citizen and began developing his business interests.
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The telecommunications firm Lycamobile serves as the primary pillar of his enterprise. Following its inception in 2006, the business grew significantly, though it has faced scrutiny in recent years. Since November 2018, Lycatel and its founder have been involved in disputes regarding alleged fraud. A tribunal hearing was scheduled for March 2020 to address claims involving HM Revenue and Customs, with estimated potential liabilities reaching £60 million.
Entertainment and Sporting Interests
Allirajah founded Lyca Productions, which operates out of Chennai, India. The company entered the film industry in 2014 with Kaththi. It later produced the 2018 science fiction thriller 2.0, which ranked as India's most expensive film and the 5th most expensive non-English-language film at the time of its release. Beyond film, he holds ownership in professional sports, acquiring the Jaffna Kings in the Lanka Premier League in September 2021 and owning the Lyca Kovai Kings team in the Tamil Nadu Premier League.
Philanthropic Activities
In 2010, he established the Gnanam Foundation, named after his mother, Gnanambikai Allirajah. The foundation has collaborated with Muslim Aid to construct a well in Sudan and worked with the Children’s Hunger Relief Fund to renovate water wells in Sri Lanka. During the Ebola crisis in 2014, the organization donated £59,000 to Save the Children.
Fast facts
- Born: 2 March 1972, Sri Lanka
- Founder of Lycamobile: 2006
- Founder of Gnanam Foundation: 2010
- Production debut: Kaththi, 2014
- Jaffna Kings acquisition: September 2021
- Citizenship: British, Sri Lankan
Questions readers ask
What is the Gnanam Foundation's primary focus?
The foundation supports humanitarian projects, including water infrastructure improvements in Sudan and Sri Lanka, and provided aid during the 2014 Ebola crisis.
What is the status of the Lycatel legal disputes?
Since November 2018, the company has been involved in disputes regarding alleged fraud, with significant potential liabilities reported in relation to HM Revenue and Customs.
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