In the competitive world of the paint industry, Kuldip Singh Dhingra and Gurbachan Singh Dhingra have emerged as formidable leaders. Their strategic vision and relentless drive have propelled Berger Paints from a struggling business into one of India’s most successful paint companies. By 2023, Berger Paints had achieved an impressive revenue of ₹10,619 crore, securing its position as the second-largest paint company in India, following closely behind Asian Paints.
Expanding Horizons: Berger Paints’ Global Footprint
The Dhingra brothers’ leadership has not only revived Berger Paints but also extended its reach far beyond Indian shores. Today, the company boasts operations in several countries, including Russia, Poland, Nepal, and Bangladesh. This international expansion has been a key factor in establishing Berger Paints as a global leader in the paint industry.
A Deep-rooted Legacy in the Paint Business
The Dhingra family’s association with the paint industry is deeply entrenched, dating back to 1898. After completing their education at Delhi University, Kuldip and Gurbachan Singh Dhingra took control of their family’s paint business. By the 1970s, their initiatives in Amritsar had already begun to flourish, generating annual revenues of around ₹10 lakh. The 1980s saw the brothers make significant strides internationally, becoming the largest exporters of paint to the Soviet Union, with an impressive annual turnover of ₹300 crore.
The Berger Paints Revolution
The turning point in the Dhingra brothers’ entrepreneurial journey came in the 1990s when they made the bold decision to acquire Berger Paints from Vijay Mallya. This acquisition marked the beginning of a new era for the company. The brothers introduced innovative marketing strategies and emphasized quality and affordability, transforming Berger Paints into a brand synonymous with excellence. Their efforts revitalized the company, strengthened customer loyalty, and solidified its presence in both domestic and international markets.
Berger Paints Today: A Symbol of Excellence
Under the astute leadership of Kuldip Singh Dhingra, who serves as Chairman, and Gurbachan Singh Dhingra, the Vice Chairman, Berger Paints has continued to thrive. The company’s remarkable growth is reflected in the Dhingra brothers’ combined net worth, which Forbes estimates at a staggering $8.2 billion (approximately ₹68,467 crore).
As Berger Paints looks to the future, the next generation of the Dhingra family is poised to carry the torch forward. Kuldip Singh Dhingra’s daughter, Rishma Kaur, and Gurbachan Singh Dhingra’s son, Kanwardip Singh Dhingra, have taken on executive roles within the company. As Executive Directors, they are leading the charge from the company’s headquarters in Kolkata, ensuring that Berger Paints remains at the forefront of the global paint industry.
