Vijaypat Singhania, former Raymond Group chairman, dies at 87

Former Vijaypat Singhania, a prominent Indian industrialist who led the growth of the Raymond Group and earned global recognition as a record-setting aviator, passed away in Mumbai on Saturday evening. He was 87.

The news of his death was announced by his son, Gautam Singhania, the current chairman and managing director of the company, in a post on the social media platform X. Family members said he passed away peacefully , and the last rites will be held in Mumbai on Sunday , reportedly at the Chandanwadi crematorium.

Born on October 4, 1938 , Singhania was part of the well-known Singhania business family and went on to become one of India’s most influential textile entrepreneurs. He served as chairman and managing director of Raymond from 1980 to 2000 , during which he helped transform the company into a leading brand in men’s fashion and fine woollen fabrics.

Under his leadership, Raymond strengthened its position as a trusted name in India’s textile industry and popularised the brand’s iconic “The Complete Man” identity. His stewardship is widely credited with expanding the company’s manufacturing footprint and global reputation.

Singhania was also celebrated for his passion for aviation and adventure. In November 2005 , he set a world record for the highest altitude reached in a hot-air balloon , flying to about 21,027 metres (68,986 feet) above Mumbai in a specially designed balloon capsule.

His contributions extended beyond business and aviation. He received the Padma Bhushan in 2006 , one of India’s highest civilian honours, and earlier the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award for his aviation achievements. He was also appointed Honorary Air Commodore of the Indian Air Force and served as Sheriff of Mumbai in 2006–07 .

After stepping down from Raymond’s leadership, Singhania transferred his entire 37 per cent stake in the company to his son Gautam in 2015. The decision later led to a widely publicised family dispute and legal battle , though the differences were eventually resolved.