Vijaypat Singhania, Padma Bhushan awardee and former chairman of the Raymond Group, passed away peacefully in Mumbai on Saturday evening at the age of 87. He was widely remembered as a visionary industrialist, philanthropist and inspiring personality whose influence extended across business, aviation and public life.
His son, Gautam Singhania, Chairman and Managing Director of the Raymond Group, confirmed the news on X (formerly Twitter), posting a brief tribute: “RIP. Om Shanti”.
Confirming the development, a spokesperson for the Raymond Group said, “Air Commodore Vijaypat Singhania, recipient of Padma Bhushan, former Chairman of Raymond Group and former Sheriff of Bombay peacefully passed away earlier this evening in Mumbai. His last rites will be performed tomorrow, March 29, 2026. All of us are deeply saddened and praying for his Sadgati”.
According to a family announcement, the funeral assembly will be held at 1:30 pm on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at Haveli, LD Ruparel Marg in Mumbai.
The cremation is scheduled at Chandanwadi crematorium at 3:00 pm. Family members, friends and well-wishers have been requested to attend and pay their final respects.
The condolence message issued by the Singhania family described him as “a visionary leader, philanthropist, and an inspiring personality whose legacy will continue to guide and inspire generations”.
The family also invoked a verse from the Bhagavad Gita, “Karmanye vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana, ma karmaphalahetur bhur ma te sangostvakarmani”. They said they pray for the departed soul to attain eternal peace.
ABOUT VIJAYPAT SINGHANIA
Born into the Singhania business family in the late 1930s, Vijaypat Singhania was among India’s most prominent industrialists and aviation pioneers.
During his tenure, he transformed the Raymond Group into a globally recognised brand in suiting fabrics and menswear, overseeing major expansion in manufacturing, retail and exports.
He also served as the Sheriff of Bombay, reflecting his stature in civic life. Beyond business, he was known for his passion for aviation and adventure.
A trained pilot and honorary Air Commodore, he set several aviation and ballooning records, earning recognition as one of the world’s leading balloonists.
Vijaypat Singhania once set a world record for achieving the highest altitude in a hot air balloon, underscoring his passion for aviation and adventure.
He served as chairman of Raymond Group for nearly two decades until 2000, steering the company through a period of significant growth.
After stepping down, he handed over leadership to his son, Gautam Singhania, and also transferred his entire 37 per cent stake in the company to him.
In later years, the father and son became involved in legal disputes, though the differences were eventually resolved amicably.
In recognition of his contributions to industry and society, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour.
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With PTI inputs
