Thursday, March 21, 2019
Biography of Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw:
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, born on March 23, 1953, in Bangalore, India, is an Indian entrepreneur and the chairperson and managing director of Biocon Limited, a biotechnology company based in Bangalore. She is a pioneering figure in the Indian biotechnology industry and one of India's most successful businesswomen.
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| Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw |
Education and Early Career:
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw graduated in 1973 with a bachelor's degree in Zoology from Mount Carmel College, Bangalore. She later pursued a master's degree in Malting and Brewing from the Ballarat College, Melbourne University, Australia. Her initial career began in the field of brewing at Carlton and United Breweries in Australia.
Founding Biocon Limited by Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw:
In 1978, with a capital of ₹10,000, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw founded Biocon India in the garage of her rented house in Bangalore. Biocon initially focused on producing industrial enzymes but later transitioned into the field of biopharmaceuticals. Under her leadership, Biocon became a pioneering biotechnology company, specializing in areas like cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases.
Achievements and Contributions:
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw's innovative approach and leadership have driven Biocon's success. The company became India's largest biopharmaceutical firm, making significant strides in research and development. Biocon's contributions to affordable healthcare and cutting-edge research have earned it a global reputation.
Mazumdar-Shaw has been a strong advocate for gender diversity and women's empowerment in the corporate sector. She has received numerous awards and honors, including the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan, some of India's highest civilian honors, in recognition of her contributions to the fields of biotechnology and industry.
Philanthropy and Social Initiatives:
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is involved in various philanthropic activities. She has established educational and healthcare initiatives through the Mazumdar Shaw Medical Foundation and the Biocon Foundation, contributing to healthcare and education in underprivileged communities.
Personal Life of Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw:
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is married to John Shaw, a Scotsman, and the couple has a daughter named Pavitra. Despite facing challenges and skepticism in the early days of her career, she has become an inspiring figure for entrepreneurs, especially women, in India and worldwide.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw's entrepreneurial journey and contributions to biotechnology have made her a trailblazer in the field. She continues to lead Biocon with a vision for innovation, research, and affordable healthcare, shaping the future of the biotechnology industry in India and beyond.