Mumbai: Shri Nand Kishore Goenka, father of Essel Group Chairman and founder Dr. Subhash Chandra, passed away on Monday at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy of social service, nation-building and unwavering commitment to community welfare.
Born on September 28, 1930, and affectionately known to many as “Shri Nand Kishore,” he was widely respected for a life devoted to community service and the nation. A lifelong Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) volunteer, he dedicated himself to social causes, Gau Seva (cow welfare), and community development. He also witnessed and supported the growth of the Essel Group across generations while choosing to remain focused on public service rather than business.
Announcing the news through a heartfelt post on Social Media, Dr. Subhash Chandra paid tribute to his father, describing him as a guiding force whose values and principles shaped generations of the family.
“Salute to a life dedicated to service and service to the nation,” Chandra wrote.
“This morning, our revered father, Shri Nand Kishore Goenka Ji breathed his last. The entire family is emotional at this moment, but more than grief, we have gratitude for his glorious life of 96 years, which he dedicated to the society and the nation.”
Remembering his father’s lifelong commitment to public service, Chandra highlighted that Goenka’s nation-first resolve, dedication to social service and selfless commitment to Gau Seva remained enduring sources of inspiration for the family.
“Babuji, your teachings and values will always be with us,” he added.
Beyond his service to society, Nand Kishore Goenka was known for his tireless efforts to unite the Vaishya community. He also played a significant role in the development of Agroha, the historic capital associated with Maharaja Agrasen, and contributed to strengthening the Agrasen merchant community through his social initiatives.
The passing of Nand Kishore Goenka prompted condolences from political leaders across party lines, who acknowledged his contributions to society and community development.
His mortal remains have been kept at A Road, Vasant Sagar, Marine Drive, Mumbai, to enable family members, friends and well-wishers to pay their final respects. The last rites will be performed on Wednesday morning at Goenka Udyan in Agroha.
Shri Nand Kishore Goenka is survived by a large family and leaves behind a legacy built on service, tradition and quiet dedication to the values he upheld throughout his life. While Dr. Subhash Chandra went on to build one of India’s most influential media and entertainment conglomerates through the Essel Group and Zee, he has often acknowledged that his father’s principles of humility, discipline, social responsibility and nation-first thinking formed the foundation of his own journey.
