Early Life
Rishad Naoroji was born on August 30, 1951, into the prominent Godrej family. His father, Kaikhushru Naoroji, married Dosa Godrej, the second eldest daughter of Pirojsha Godrej, and Ardeshir Godrej, the founder of the Godrej group, is his maternal granduncle. His early exposure to nature, particularly during visits to Periyar National Park in Kerala, ignited his passion for birds. He earned a degree from Mumbai's College of Commerce and Economics.
Rise to Success
Naoroji inherited a one-fifth share of the Godrej family assets. However, he never actively engaged in the family businesses. Instead, he has dedicated his life to environmental conservation and ornithology, distinguishing himself from his peers. He founded the Raptor Research and Conservation Foundation in 2011, which focuses on the conservation of Asian birds of prey. He also serves on the governing council of the Bombay Natural History Society.
Key Business Strategies
Rishad Naoroji has not been actively involved in any specific company. His focus has been on his passion for conservation and ornithology. In May 2024, he decided to gift most of his shares in group companies to his nephews and nieces, a rare instance of intergenerational wealth transfer within the family.
Philanthropy
Rishad Naoroji's primary philanthropic focus is on environmental conservation. He founded the Raptor Research and Conservation Foundation to support the conservation of Asian birds of prey. He has also been involved with the Bombay Natural History Society and other conservation efforts.