In the bustling metropolis of New Delhi, a narrative of extraordinary ambition challenges the conventional retirement model. The story unfolds with Lachhman Das Mittal, who, at an age when most individuals look forward to a peaceful post-work era, chose to carve a unique entrepreneurial path that has been nothing short of inspirational.
As the calendar marks his 93rd year, Mittal has earned the distinction of being India’s oldest billionaire, a title previously held by the late Keshub Mahindra, who passed away at the age of 99 in April 2023. A visionary chairman of the Sonalika Group, Mittal’s road to prominence defied the odds. His origin story is rooted in his early days as a life insurance agent at the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC).
Mittal’s academic journey was marked by his tenacious spirit and pursuit of excellence. After earning his graduate degree, he decided to further his education in Urdu and English literature, a pursuit in which he excelled, securing a gold medal in his Master of Arts in English. His professional journey began in 1955 with LIC, but it was not without its trials. Mittal faced his fair share of adversity, including bankruptcy resulting from an unsuccessful venture in the agricultural equipment industry.
Undaunted by these setbacks, Mittal’s relentless drive propelled him forward. Upon retirement in 1996, he made a bold shift by reinvesting his savings into Sonalika Tractors. The decision was pivotal—transforming the company’s trajectory. Today, Sonalika Tractors is a global powerhouse with business operations in a staggering 120 countries, boasting a robust manufacturing facility in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, and subsidiary operations across five nations.
Looking beyond his phenomenal success, Mittal’s journey underscores a deeper family ethos. His lineage now plays a pivotal role in the company’s continuity, with his son Amrit Sagar Mittal and Deepak Mittal at the helm, overseeing day-to-day operations. Despite entrusting his progeny with the company’s runnings, Mittal remains a central figure within the group by actively participating in its affairs and making regular visits to the offices. His grandsons, Sushant and Raman, are also intricately involved in the business, ensuring the Mittal legacy thrives.
Mittal’s life is an embodiment of the spirit of entrepreneurship that transcends age and conventional career timelines. His journey from a diligent insurance agent to a celebrated industrialist sends a powerful message: retirement can be the dawn of innovation and entrepreneurial success rather than a sunset on professional pursuits.
His story resonates with budding entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals alike, proving that determination paired with vision can transform any challenge into a stepping stone for success. Lachhman Das Mittal’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, a testament to the fact that it’s never too late to start afresh and chase one’s dreams, even if that means beginning at what the world deems as the end—retirement.
