M.H. Hasham Premji
M.H. Hasham Premji was an Indian entrepreneur best known as the founder of Wipro. His vision and business acumen transformed a small vegetable oil company into a strong foundation for one of India's largest multinational corporations. His contributions to India's business landscape remain significant, as Wipro has evolved into a global leader in IT services and consulting. [1]
M.H. Hasham Premji 
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| Born | Early 20th century British India |
| Died | 1966 |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Entrepreneur, Businessman |
| Known for | Founder of Wipro |
| Successor | Azim Premji |
Early Life and Business Beginnings
M.H. Hasham Premji was born in British India in the early 20th century. He came from a family with a strong business background, which played a crucial role in shaping his entrepreneurial mindset.
In 1945, he established Western India Vegetable Products Limited, which initially focused on manufacturing and selling vegetable oils, particularly refined oils under the brand name Sunflower Vanaspati. The company grew steadily, expanding its product line to include soaps and other consumer goods. [2]
The Evolution of Wipro
Under M.H. Hasham Premji’s leadership, Wipro gained a strong foothold in the consumer goods sector. The company built a reputation for quality products and efficient operations. However, his sudden passing in 1966 led to a major turning point for the business.
Following his demise, his son, Azim Premji, took over the company at the age of 21. Over the years, Azim Premji diversified Wipro from a consumer goods company into an IT and technology services giant. Today, Wipro is one of India’s most successful multinational corporations, specializing in:
- IT services and consulting
- Cloud computing and cybersecurity
- Artificial intelligence and automation solutions
While M.H. Hasham Premji may not have witnessed Wipro’s transformation into an IT powerhouse, his business foundation and values were instrumental in shaping its future. [3]
Legacy and Impact
M.H. Hasham Premji’s entrepreneurial vision and strategic leadership laid the groundwork for Wipro’s long-term success. His ability to build a business from scratch remains an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. His legacy includes:
- Creating one of India's most respected companies – From a small consumer goods business to a global corporation.
- Establishing a strong business philosophy – Focusing on quality, integrity, and long-term growth.
- Paving the way for India's technology boom – Providing the foundation upon which Azim Premji built an IT empire.
Today, Wipro operates in more than 50 countries and is a key player in the global technology and consulting industry.[4]
Conclusion
M.H. Hasham Premji was a true visionary whose entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundation for one of India’s most respected multinational companies. His journey is a testament to perseverance, business acumen, and long-term vision. Even decades after his passing, his impact on Indian industry and global business remains profound, as Wipro continues to thrive as a leading global IT services provider. [5]