Lord Swraj Paul, one of Britain’s most respected industrialists and philanthropists, passed away in London on Thursday evening at the age of 94. Family members confirmed that the founder of the Caparo Group died peacefully in hospital, surrounded by his loved ones, after a recent illness.
Born in Jalandhar, India, in 1931, Lord Swraj Paul moved to the United Kingdom in the 1960s while seeking treatment for his daughter Ambika, who tragically succumbed to cancer at the age of four. This personal loss became the foundation of his lifelong philanthropic journey.
He established the Ambika Paul Foundation, which has since donated millions to initiatives supporting the health, education, and wellbeing of children worldwide. London Zoo, home to the popular Ambika Paul Children’s Zoo, remains one of the foundation’s most cherished beneficiaries.
Swraj Paul: A Life of Philanthropy and Legacy
Lord Swraj Paul endured profound personal losses, including the tragic death of his son Angad Paul in 2015 and his wife, Lady Aruna Paul, in 2022. Yet, he transformed grief into purpose. The Lady Aruna Swraj Paul Hall at the historic Indian Gymkhana Club in London, inaugurated in 2023, stands as a tribute to his late wife. Speaking at the inauguration, he movingly recalled their 65 years of marriage as a life filled with harmony and love.
His business legacy remains equally remarkable. As the founder of the Caparo Group, headquartered in London, Lord Paul built a multinational empire spanning over 40 sites across the UK, North America, India, and the Middle East. The company remains a key player in the steel and engineering sectors. In the 2025 Sunday Times Rich List, Lord Swraj Paul was ranked 81st with an estimated fortune of £2 billion.
Commitment to Education and Community
Alongside business success, Lord Swraj Paul devoted himself to education. As Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton for over 26 years, he played a pivotal role in shaping the institution’s growth. Last year, in a symbolic moment, he awarded an honorary doctorate to his son, Akash Paul, who now leads Caparo Group as CEO and continues the family’s business legacy.
“My son has worked alongside me since 1982,” Lord Paul had proudly remarked, acknowledging Akash’s role in expanding Caparo’s international footprint and strengthening its global competitiveness.
Swraj Paul: Influence in Public Service
An active member of the House of Lords since his appointment as a life peer in 1996, Lord Swraj Paul remained engaged in parliamentary duties until his final months, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to public service and the Indian diaspora in the UK.
Tributes poured in from across the world. Lord Rami Ranger, his colleague in the Upper House, offered prayers for his departed soul, calling him a noble figure who served with dignity.
Global Leaders Pay Tribute
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow at the news, describing Lord Swraj Paul as a “bridge between the UK and India.”
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Swaraj Paul Ji. His contributions to industry, philanthropy, and public service in the UK, and his unwavering support for closer ties with India will always be remembered,” the Prime Minister posted on X. “I fondly recall our many interactions. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
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