The Godrej group has been split between two branches of the founding family. (FILE)
In a significant development, the Godrej Group, with its illustrious 127-year history spanning diverse sectors from household goods to real estate, has undergone a split between two branches of its founding family.
Adi Godrej and his brother Nadir will retain control of Godrej Industries, which comprises five publicly listed companies. Meanwhile, their cousins Jamshyd and Smita will take charge of unlisted Godrej & Boyce and its subsidiaries, alongside a valuable land portfolio, notably including prime properties in Mumbai.
This division marks a historic moment in the legacy of the Godrej family, with Adi Godrej (82) and Nadir (73) leading one faction, and their cousins Jamshyd Godrej (75) and Smita Godrej Crishna (74) spearheading the other, according to an official statement.
Under the new arrangement, Jamshyd Godrej will assume the role of chairperson and managing director of Godrej & Boyce, along with his niece Nyrika Holkar, who will serve as executive director. Together, they will oversee this arm of the enterprise, which encompasses a wide array of industries, from aerospace and defense to furniture and IT software.
Meanwhile, the Godrej Industries Group, encompassing the publicly listed entities Godrej Industries, Godrej Consumer Products, Godrej Properties, Godrej Agrovet, and Astec Lifesciences, will be helmed by Nadir Godrej as chairperson, with Adi and Nadir, along with their immediate families, retaining control.
Pirojsha Godrej, son of Adi, is slated to assume the role of executive vice chairperson of the Godrej Industries Group, eventually succeeding Nadir as chairperson in August 2026, as per the statement.
The restructuring, described by the Godrej family as “an ownership realignment,” aims to ensure harmony and strategic focus within the conglomerate, fostering agility and maximizing long-term value for shareholders and stakeholders alike. Both branches are committed to preserving and enhancing the rich heritage associated with the Godrej brand.
The origins of the Godrej Group trace back to Ardeshir Godrej and his brother’s successful venture into locksmithing in 1897. Over time, leadership of the group passed to the descendants of Ardeshir’s younger brother Pirojsha, culminating in the current division between the families of Burjor (Adi and Nadir) and Naval (Jamshyd and Smita).
The split necessitated resignations from various corporate boards, symbolizing the amicable transition of control. Adi and Nadir Godrej stepped down from the Godrej & Boyce Board, while Jamshyd Godrej relinquished his positions on the boards of GCPL and Godrej Properties.
Reports suggest further asset transfers between the branches, indicating a comprehensive realignment of interests.
The valuable real estate assets, predominantly located in Mumbai suburbs, will remain under the purview of Godrej & Boyce, with arrangements underway to formalize ownership rights.
Among these assets, the Vikhroli property stands out, boasting substantial development potential estimated at over ₹1 lakh crore. Originally acquired by Pirojsha in the 1940s, this parcel of land holds historical significance, previously owned by a prominent Parsi merchant.
Looking ahead, the Godrej Group is poised to navigate this transition with the guidance of seasoned advisors, signaling a commitment to transparency and compliance with regulatory requirements.
The restructuring underscores the group’s enduring commitment to innovation and community welfare, echoing the values instilled by its founders over a century ago. As the Godrej legacy continues, fueled by a spirit of purposeful innovation, the group remains steadfast in its mission to contribute to India’s economic progress and societal well-being.
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