India’s billionaire count skyrocketed to 229 in 2026, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s economic landscape. Among the new entrants is Alakh Pandey, a 33-year-old engineering dropout who co-founded the edtech firm Physicswallah in 2020, now making waves on the Forbes World’s Billionaires List.
Leading the pack are Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani, holding the titles of the richest and second-richest Indians, respectively. Following closely is Savitri Jindal, the wealthiest woman in India, and Lakshmi Mittal, who ranks fourth.
Uday Kotak, recognized recently with the Padma Bhushan, also remains a key figure in this elite group. Meanwhile, Vijay Shekhar Sharma has made a comeback to the billionaires list this year, showcasing the dynamic nature of wealth in India.
In sports, Dasun Shanaka is set to join the Rajasthan Royals for INR 2 Crore as a replacement for Sam Curran. Shanaka, a seasoned cricketer, has played 6 Tests, 71 ODIs, and 131 T20Is, amassing over 3350 international runs and taking 86 wickets.
Alakh Pandey’s journey began in 2014 when he started teaching Physics online, a move that has now catapulted him into the billionaire club. His success story reflects the growing influence of the edtech sector in India.
As the list evolves, the future remains uncertain. Will more entrepreneurs emerge from the tech and education sectors? Details remain unconfirmed.
