Manjushree Khaitan Passes Away at 69: Kesoram Industries Chairperson’s Legacy
Remembering Manjushree Khaitan: Kesoram Industries Leader Dies at 69
Kesoram Industries Mourns the Loss of Chairperson Manjushree Khaitan
Manjushree Khaitan, Chairperson of Kesoram Industries, Dies at Age 69
17.05.2024: Manjushree Khaitan, the esteemed chairperson of BK Birla group’s flagship, Kesoram Industries, passed away on Thursday at Birla Park in Kolkata. She was 69 years old and had been battling a prolonged illness.
A Legacy of Leadership
Khaitan’s journey with Kesoram Industries began in October 1998 when she joined the board. Her significant role in the company’s leadership became evident in 2013 when she was appointed executive vice-chairman, following Basant Kumar Birla’s succession plan. In July 2019, after her father’s passing, she took on the role of non-executive chairperson.
Final Farewell
The last rites for Khaitan were conducted later in the evening, attended by Birla family members, including her nephew Kumar Mangalam Birla, and many well-wishers.
Steely Resolve Amid Challenges
Over the past year, Khaitan managed the company’s operations from her Gurusaday Dutta Road bungalow with the assistance of senior executives. Those who worked closely with her recall her unwavering determination to rescue Kesoram from financial distress. Despite her declining health due to a chronic illness, Khaitan never gave up. She implemented numerous restructuring measures and infused capital into the company to steer it towards stability.
Strategic Business Decisions
In a strategic move, Kesoram’s board, which oversees two cement plants in South India, decided to approach UltraTech Cements, run by Kumar Mangalam Birla, for a takeover of the cement business. This all-stock deal is currently awaiting regulatory approval. If the demerger proceeds as planned, Kesoram will emerge with significantly reduced business operations.
Passion Beyond Business
Khaitan’s dedication extended beyond her corporate responsibilities. She was deeply passionate about education, particularly through her involvement with the Ashok Hall group of schools. Additionally, she was a patron of the arts, supporting numerous artists through the Birla Academy of Fine Arts.
In Memory of Manjushree Khaitan
Manjushree Khaitan’s passing marks the end of an era for Kesoram Industries. Her legacy of resilience, commitment to restructuring the company, and contributions to education and the arts will be remembered and cherished.