Sunday, August 4, 2019
Biography of Vijay Mallya
Vijay Mallya is an Indian businessman and former member of the Indian Parliament who was born on December 18, 1955, in Kolkata, India. He is the son of Vittal Mallya, a prominent industrialist and the former chairman of the United Breweries Group (UB Group), a conglomerate with interests in beverages, aviation, and other industries.
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| Biography of Vijay Mallya |
Early Life and Education:
Vijay Mallya was educated at La Martiniere Calcutta and later attended St. Xavier's College in Kolkata. He pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of Delhi and later earned a degree in business from the Fisher College of Business at Ohio State University in the United States.
Business Ventures and United Breweries Group (UB Group):
After completing his education, Mallya joined his family's business, the United Breweries Group, which was primarily involved in the brewing and beverages industry. Under his leadership, the company expanded its operations and became one of the major players in the alcoholic beverages market in India. The group also ventured into other sectors, including aviation, with the launch of Kingfisher Airlines in 2005.
Vijay Mallya's Kingfisher Airlines and Aviation Business:
Kingfisher Airlines, founded by Vijay Mallya, aimed to be a premium airline in the Indian aviation industry. However, the airline faced financial challenges, leading to its eventual grounding in 2012. The financial struggles of Kingfisher Airlines led to controversy and legal issues, affecting Mallya's reputation.
Political Career:
Vijay Mallya was elected to the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, multiple times. He represented the state of Karnataka as an Independent member and later as a member of the Janata Dal (Secular) party.
Legal Troubles and Extradition Proceedings:
Vijay Mallya faced legal issues related to financial irregularities, loan defaults, and allegations of money laundering. In 2016, he left India and moved to the United Kingdom, where he resided for several years. The Indian government sought his extradition to face charges in India. After a lengthy legal battle, the UK Home Secretary signed an order in 2019 approving his extradition, subject to the resolution of legal matters. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the extradition process was ongoing.
Personal Life of Vijay Mallya:
Vijay Mallya has been married twice and has children from both marriages. He was married to Sameera Tyabjee and later to Rekha Mallya.