Atul Nishar
| Atul Nishar | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Entrepreneur, Philanthropist |
| Known for | Founder of Aptech, Hexaware, Azent |
Atul Nishar is a distinguished Indian entrepreneur and philanthropist known for his pioneering work in India’s information technology and education sectors. He is the founder of Aptech Limited, Hexaware Technologies, and Azent Overseas Education. With a legacy spanning several decades, Nishar has significantly contributed to the growth of India’s global IT services and ed-tech ecosystem.[1]
Educational Background and Early Career
Atul Nishar earned his degrees in Commerce and Law from the University of Mumbai. He is also a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. His academic and financial background laid a strong foundation for his entrepreneurial endeavors in technology and education.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Aptech Limited
In 1985, Nishar founded Aptech Limited, one of India’s earliest computer education firms. The company quickly grew into a global leader in IT training and education, with over 2,400 training centers across 52 countries. He served as Aptech’s chairman until 2003 when the original promoters divested their stake.[2]
Hexaware Technologies
In 1990, Nishar established Hexaware Technologies, a global IT and BPO services firm. Under his leadership, Hexaware expanded its presence worldwide, employing over 8,000 professionals and serving 200+ clients. In 2013, he sold his stake to Baring Private Equity Asia and stepped down as Chairman, continuing in the role of Chairman Emeritus.
Azent Overseas Education
In 2018, Nishar launched Azent Overseas Education, an ed-tech platform combining AI-driven digital tools with expert guidance to help students pursue international education. Azent offers hybrid models of online and offline counseling for global university admissions. Nishar currently serves as its Chairman.[3]
Philanthropy and Social Contributions
Atul Nishar is a strong proponent of accessible, high-quality education. He is a co-founder of Ashoka University, a leading liberal arts university in India. His philanthropic pursuits are focused on promoting academic excellence, leadership, and social change.
He also serves as:
- President of TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs) Mumbai
- President of Namaste America, an organization that fosters India-U.S. cultural and economic relations[4]
Investments and Mentorship
As an angel investor, Nishar has supported numerous startups across ed-tech, health-tech, and digital design. Notable investments include:
- Creative Galileo – an educational content platform
- Acko Insurance – a digital-first general insurance company
Through strategic mentorship and capital, he continues to shape India’s startup ecosystem.
Legacy
Atul Nishar’s visionary leadership across IT education, software services, and global counseling platforms reflects his enduring commitment to empowering youth and building institutions that scale with integrity. His entrepreneurial journey has inspired a new generation of Indian founders across industries.[5]
References
- ↑ https://m.economictimes.com/tech/ites/after-selling-hexaware-atul-nishar-longs-for-nothingness/articleshow/22082893.cms
- ↑ https://m.economictimes.com/magazines/panache/devangi-nishar-ties-the-knot-with-saharsh-parekh-in-abu-dhabi/articleshow/51049805.cms
- ↑ https://in.marketscreener.com/insider/ATUL-KANTILAL-NISHAR-A0FKHK/
- ↑ https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/like-a-boss-i-hexawares-atul-nishar-on-building-a-compassionate-organisation-emulating-the-franchise-model-of-mcdonalds-and-leadership-style-6253091.html
- ↑ https://www.goodreturns.in/company/utique-enterprises/history.html