Billionaire. Bankrupt. Back Again? The Anil Ambani Birthday Special

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Anil Ambani's story is one of towering ambition, hard lessons, and steady reinvention. As he turns 66 today, from commanding some of India's biggest business ventures to facing steep setbacks, his path reflects the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship. Today, with his sons Jai Anmol and Jai Anshul actively shaping the future, Ambani is carving out a new direction-one rooted in emerging sectors like defence and clean energy, and a determined effort to rebuild trust and value.

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Early Ambitions And Business Rise

Born in 1959 into the powerhouse Ambani family, Anil grew up surrounded by enterprise. After earning an MBA from Wharton, he joined Reliance Industries, eventually taking charge of Reliance Communications, Reliance Power, Reliance Capital, and Reliance Infrastructure after the business split with his brother Mukesh in 2005. Under his leadership, Reliance Communications became a telecom giant, and Reliance Power's 2008 IPO was one of India's largest.

By 2008, Anil Ambani's estimated net worth soared to around $42 billion, marking him as one of India's wealthiest figures. But the global financial crisis and mounting sector-specific challenges soon took a toll. Reliance Communications faced fierce competition and regulatory hurdles, and the group's debt climbed sharply. Legal disputes and debt pressures culminated in major losses and financial strain.

Turning The Page With Family At The Helm

While Anil Ambani's businesses faced turbulent times, his sons began taking more prominent roles, bringing fresh energy and strategic focus. Jai Anmol, who joined the family enterprise in 2014, has driven key initiatives, including raising stakes and enhancing valuations in financial subsidiaries. Jai Anshul, though younger, is increasingly engaged in new ventures and business operations.

Recent moves have had tangible effects. Reliance Power's power plant Sasan became debt-free after repaying a $150 million loan, while multiple other companies within the group shed thousands of crores in debt. These efforts have contributed to a rise in market valuations - Reliance Infrastructure recently hit Rs 10,192 crore, and Reliance Power climbed to Rs 16,614 crore.

New Frontiers : Defence And Clean Energy

Expanding beyond traditional businesses, Anil Ambani is focusing on sectors aligned with India's evolving priorities. Reliance Infrastructure has made a breakthrough as the first private Indian company to design and develop four types of new 155mm artillery ammunition. The company aims to export Rs 1,500 crore worth of ammunition this year alone, with a target of Rs 3,000 crore by 2027. Its sights are set on European markets, where demand for restocking artillery supplies is significant.

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The group has acquired 1,000 acres in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri district to develop the Dhirubhai Ambani Defence City, poised to be India's largest greenfield private defence project. With planned investments of Rs 5,000 crore, this project will include integrated explosives and ammunition manufacturing facilities.

On the clean energy front, Reliance NU Energies is working on a massive 350 MW solar project paired with advanced battery storage systems. This initiative includes a 25-year partnership with the Solar Energy Corporation of India and expansion plans into Bhutan for solar and hydroelectric projects. These moves reflect a clear commitment to sustainability and long-term growth.

A New Chapter Begins

Anil Ambani's financial standing has transformed over the years. From a peak estimated at $42 billion, his net worth dropped dramatically amid debt and legal challenges. As of March 2025, estimates place his net worth at around $530 million. While the gap is wide, the recent progress in clearing debts, stabilising operations, and stepping into new sectors offers signs of revival.

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This birthday is a moment that captures Anil Ambani's ongoing journey-a balance between reflecting on past lessons and focusing on steady, deliberate growth. With his sons stepping up and the group moving toward defence and clean energy, the coming years promise an evolving story, grounded in persistence and a renewed vision.