Raymond's 'Complete Man' Vijaypat Singhania Passes Away in Mumbai at 87
Vijaypat Singhania, the former chairman of Raymond Limited and a celebrated aviator who personified the brand's iconic 'The Complete Man' slogan, died in Mumbai on Saturday evening. He was 87 years old. The eminent industrialist had been admitted to a hospital on Friday following a deterioration in his health due to age-related ailments.
Final Rites and Corporate Legacy
His last rites are scheduled for Sunday at the Chandanwadi crematorium in Mumbai. Hailing from a distinguished business lineage, Singhania served as the Chairman and Managing Director of Raymond for more than two decades, steering its transformation from a woollen blanket manufacturer into a diversified powerhouse.
The family had acquired Raymond from ED Sassoon & Co in 1944. Under his visionary leadership, the company expanded aggressively into synthetic fabrics, denim, steel, industrial files, and cement, while simultaneously cementing its status as one of India's most recognizable clothing brands.
Challenges and Leadership Transition
During the latter part of his chairmanship, Raymond encountered significant financial pressures as a recession impacted its steel and cement divisions. These businesses were eventually divested. Singhania later passed the leadership baton to his son, Gautam Singhania, and remained as chairman emeritus for a period.
He is survived by his wife, Ashadevi, and his children: Gautam, Madhupati, and Shephali Ruia. It is noted that his relationship with Madhupati had been strained over business matters, and in his later years, he also experienced disagreements with Gautam regarding certain family assets.
A Record-Setting Aviator and Former Sheriff
Beyond the boardroom, Singhania was a passionate aviator and a former sheriff of Mumbai. His most remarkable feat came in November 2005, at the age of 67, when he set a world record by ascending to an altitude of 69,000 feet in a hot air balloon.
The historic flight commenced from the Mumbai racecourse in a pressurised capsule and concluded with a landing near Nashik after approximately five hours in the air. This achievement underscored the adventurous spirit that complemented his corporate acumen, truly embodying the essence of 'The Complete Man'.
