Mukesh Ambani's Six-Year Journey of Self-Sacrifice at Reliance
Mukesh Ambani's six-year journey of self-sacrifice at Reliance Industries, continuing to earn no salary while the company reported its highest net profit ever, sets an ethical example in today's business environment.
Highlights
- •Mukesh Ambani drew nil salary for 6 consecutive years
- •Reliance Industries reported a record net profit of Rs 95,754 crore in FY26
- •Ambani's decision to forego salary influenced by the pandemic's impact on the nation
- •Family members appointed at Reliance and other board directors receive minimal compensation
Asia's second richest man, Mukesh Ambani, continued his remarkable journey of self-sacrifice by drawing no salary from his conglomerate, Reliance Industries, for the sixth consecutive year. The latest annual report revealed that in the financial year 2025-26 (FY26), Ambani received a nil salary, allowances, perquisites, and retirement benefits.
Rationale Behind the Decision
Ambani's voluntary decision to forgo his remuneration began in June 2020 due to the pandemic's devastating impact on the nation's social, economic, and industrial health. The move aimed to bolster company morale during challenging times and set a strong ethical example among other top executives at Reliance.
This remarkable commitment of financial selflessness has continued even as the company reported its highest net profit ever in FY 26, reaching Rs 95,754 crore. Moreover, Reliance's market capitalisation stood at a record-high $191.8 billion (Rs 18,19,103 crore).
While Ambani focused on his role as Chairman and Managing Director, his immediate family members were appointed to the board in October 2023 at nil salary, receiving only a sitting fee and commission. This decision underscores a collective commitment to shared values within the Ambani family.
The other non-executive directors of the company included industry veterans such as Arundhati Bhattacharya (former SBI chairperson), K V Chowdary (ex-CVC), and veteran banker K V Kamath, among others. All independent directors received Rs 2.5 crore in commission.
The move by Mukesh Ambani
