Krishna Chivukula: The foundation of Krishna Chivukula’s remarkable career was built on academic excellence and intellectual curiosity. He graduated with Honours in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Bombay in 1968, where his analytical rigor and engineering insight distinguished him early. His passion for advanced technology led him to pursue an M.Tech in Aerospace (Aeronautical) Engineering from IIT Madras in 1970, an institution that would later play a pivotal role in his philanthropic legacy.
Driven by a desire to bridge technology and management, Krishna Chivukula earned an MBA from Harvard Business School in 1980, gaining global exposure to leadership, strategy, and innovation. Decades later, his contributions to industry and society were formally recognized with a Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) from Tumkur University in 2012.
Krishna Chivukula: Early Career and Historic Leadership Achievement
Krishna Chivukula began his professional journey in the United States as an engineer, where his technical brilliance and leadership ability quickly set him apart. Rising through the ranks at Hoffman Industries, he became Chief Engineer by 1976.
In a landmark achievement, at just 37 years of age, Krishna Chivukula made history by becoming the first Indian to serve as Group President and Chief Executive Officer of a major American conglomerate. This milestone was not only personal but symbolic, breaking barriers for Indian professionals on the global corporate stage.
Entrepreneurial Leap: Building Global Enterprises
Rather than resting on corporate success, Krishna Chivukula chose the more challenging path of entrepreneurship.
Shiva Technologies Inc. (1990)
In 1990, he founded Shiva Technologies Inc. in Syracuse, New York, specializing in advanced mass spectroscopic techniques for trace element analysis. Under his leadership, the company rose to become the world’s number one provider in its domain, earning global recognition for scientific precision and reliability.
This success later expanded to India with the establishment of Shiva Analyticals Pvt. Ltd. in Bangalore in 1997, followed by operations in Tanzania and the United States, creating a truly international analytical services network.
Krishna Chivukula: INDO-MIM – Transforming Global Manufacturing
The most defining chapter in Krishna Chivukula’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1997, when he introduced Metal Injection Molding (MIM) technology to India through the founding of INDO-US MIM Tec Pvt. Ltd. (INDO-MIM) in Bangalore.
At a time when MIM itself was still emerging in the United States, Krishna Chivukula envisioned India as a global manufacturing hub for high-precision metal components.
Today, INDO-MIM is the world’s largest Metal Injection Molding company, leading the industry in capacity, sales, and technological excellence.
Key highlights include:
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Employing over 2,000 highly qualified professionals
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Serving global clients across industrial, consumer, and medical sectors
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Achieving international awards for manufacturing excellence
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Becoming India’s only large-scale MIM industry
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Recording a projected turnover nearing ₹1,000 crore
Through INDO-MIM, Krishna Chivukula did more than build a company; he helped redefine India’s role in advanced global manufacturing.
Expanding Industrial Impact: Gowri Ventures
In 2009, Krishna Chivukula founded Gowri Ventures in Renigunta, focusing on high-precision investment castings. This venture further strengthened India’s capabilities in sophisticated manufacturing while generating skilled employment and regional development.
Philanthropy Rooted in Gratitude and Purpose
While his industrial achievements are extraordinary, Krishna Chivukula’s philanthropy is equally transformative.
Record-Breaking Donation to IIT Madras
In August 2024, Krishna Chivukula made history by donating ₹228 crore (approximately $27 million) to IIT Madras, the largest single donation ever received by the institute, and among the most significant gifts to any educational institution in India.
This landmark contribution supports:
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Merit-based scholarships and fellowships for top B.Tech students and sportspersons
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Construction of the “Krishna Chivukula Block” on campus
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International scholarships for students from SAARC and African nations
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Funding for high-risk, high-reward research by faculty members
This act reflects his belief that education is the most powerful engine of national progress.
Grassroots Social Impact
Krishna Chivukula’s compassion extends well beyond elite institutions.
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Sponsors a mid-day meal program for over 2,200 school children in Bangalore
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Funds healthcare for underprivileged children through Bangalore Baptist Hospital
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Supported the Asha Foundation, aiding HIV/AIDS patients
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Donated $1 million (2006–07) to establish advanced operating theatres and laboratories
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Adopted a school in Chamarajanagar, supporting 300 children from economically weaker and orphaned backgrounds
He also serves on the Board of Advisors of Bangalore Baptist Hospital, reinforcing his long-term commitment to healthcare access.
Krishna Chivukula: Recognition and Honors
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Distinguished Alumni Award, IIT Madras (2015)
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Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.), Tumkur University (2012)
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International awards recognizing excellence in manufacturing and leadership