Meet Krishan Kumar Modi, Lalit Modi’s father who held stakes in Godfrey Phillips, 24Seven, and Colorbar – His life, legacy, and business empire – Success Stories

Updated Mar 5, 2025 09:01 IST

Krishan Kumar Modi: Early Life and Background

Born on August 27, 1940, in Patiala, K. K. Modi was the eldest son of Rai Bahadur Gujarmal Modi and his second wife, Dayawati Modi. Growing up in post-independence India, he witnessed his father laying the foundation of the Modi Group, a legacy that deeply influenced his entrepreneurial journey.

Krishan Kumar Modi: The Road to Success

K. K. Modi entered the business world at an early age. In 1959, at just 19, he traveled across Europe with his uncle to explore ways of enhancing textile production. This marked his initiation into the industry. By 1965, he became Vice-President of Modipon, a newly established nylon yarn manufacturing unit in Modinagar. After his father’s passing in 1976, he took over as the torchbearer of the Modi Group, diversifying the company into multiple sectors, including pesticides, leather, and industrial chemical technology.

Krishan Kumar Modi: Leadership and Vision

K. K. Modi’s leadership skills were evident in the way he navigated the expansion of the Modi Group while maintaining family unity. As President of the Confederation of Asia Pacific Chambers of Commerce & Industry (CACCI), he actively promoted regional economic cooperation, further cementing his role as a visionary leader.

Krishan Kumar Modi: Family and Personal Life

K. K. Modi was one of eleven children in the Modi family. In 1961, he married Bina Modi in a traditionally arranged union. Bina went on to establish the Ego Thai restaurant in New Delhi, reflecting the family’s entrepreneurial spirit. Together, they raised three children—Charu Bhartia, Lalit Modi, and Samir Modi—each of whom played significant roles in the family’s business empire.

The Controversial Shadow of Lalit Modi

While K. K. Modi’s business acumen was celebrated, his elder son, Lalit Modi, often stole the limelight. As the driving force behind the IPL, Lalit Modi revolutionized Indian cricket. However, his tenure ended amid legal troubles and self-imposed exile, casting a shadow over the family’s otherwise successful legacy.

A Billion-Dollar Empire

K. K. Modi built a $1.5 billion empire, making the Modi Group one of India’s top business conglomerates. Today, the group’s presence spans over a hundred countries, with prominent ventures such as KK Modi University, KK Modi International Institute, Godfrey Phillips India Limited, Indofil Chemicals Ltd, Modicare, 24Seven convenience stores, Colorbar Cosmetics, MHP Staffing, and Ego Specialty Restaurant Chain.

A Lasting Legacy

From textiles to tobacco, from corporate leadership to family enterprises, K. K. Modi left an indelible mark on India’s business landscape. His vision, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit ensured that the Modi Group continues to thrive even after his passing.

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