July 06

Born in 1932 in Chorwad, India, Dhirubhai Ambani began his career selling small goods before founding Reliance Textiles in 1966. With a visionary approach to business and aggressive growth strategies, he transformed the company into Reliance Industries, a major player in oil, gas, and petrochemicals. Ambani pioneered novel distribution networks that brought affordable products to India's vast consumer market. Under his leadership, Reliance became one of Asia's most valuable companies, challenging multinational corporations. He was known for his bold risk-taking, deep understanding of markets, and commitment to expanding India's industrial base. Ambani's legacy continues through Reliance's ongoing expansion and his family's prominent role in the global business landscape.

Born in 1916 in San Francisco, McNamara rose through the ranks of the Ford Motor Company to become its first president without a family connection. In 1961, President John F. Kennedy appointed him as Secretary of Defense, a position he held through the administration of Lyndon B. Johnson. He played a central role in the Cuban Missile Crisis and oversaw major escalation of U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, decisions that remain widely debated. After leaving the Pentagon in 1968, he served as President of the World Bank from 1968 to 1981, focusing on global development issues. McNamara later became a vocal critic of the Vietnam conflict and explored strategic decision-making in his memoirs and documentary work.

Born in 1935 in Mandalay, Lo Hsing Han started his career as a laborer before entering the trading business. Alongside partners, he co-founded Asia World, which expanded into construction, port operations, and telecommunications. His close ties to Myanmar's military government allowed the company to secure major infrastructure contracts, making it a dominant force in the economy. Lo was also linked to narcotics and faced international sanctions, reflecting the complex nature of business and politics in Myanmar. He remained a controversial figure until his death in 2013, leaving a lasting impact on the country's business landscape.

Born in 1937 in Brooklyn, New York, Weintraub began his career as a talent agent, representing stars like Elvis Presley. He transitioned into film production, producing hits such as Nashville, The Karate Kid, and Ocean's Eleven, showcasing his knack for commercial success. Weintraub also organized groundbreaking concert tours for artists like Frank Sinatra and Led Zeppelin, earning a reputation for ambitious event production. He founded the Weintraub Company and later co-founded the entertainment conglomerate United Artists Classics. Renowned for his larger-than-life personality and business acumen, Weintraub left an enduring mark on the entertainment industry until his death in 2015.