Who is Ravi Ghai? Hey there, readers! If you’ve been scrolling through the news lately, you might have caught wind of a high-profile engagement that’s got everyone buzzing. Arjun Tendulkar, son of cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, just got engaged to Saaniya Chandok, and suddenly, her grandfather Ravi Ghai is in the spotlight. But who exactly is this guy? Ravi Ghai isn’t just a family man; he’s a powerhouse in Mumbai’s business world, blending luxury hospitality with everyone’s favorite treats like ice cream. In this post, we’ll dive into his life story, from his early days to his massive empire. Let’s break it down – and trust me, it’s a sweet read!
Table of Contents
Early Life and Education: From Global Learning to Mumbai Roots
Ravi Ghai’s story starts with a solid foundation that set him up for big things. While details about his childhood are a bit sparse in public records, we know he was born into a family with business ties in Mumbai. What really shaped him was his education abroad. He graduated from the prestigious Cornell University School of Hotel Administration, one of the top programs for hospitality worldwide. This wasn’t just a degree – it was a ticket to global expertise in hotels and food services.
After finishing his studies, Ravi returned to Mumbai in 1967. That’s when he took the reins of the family business, infusing it with fresh ideas from his international training. Imagine coming back from the U.S. with visions of luxury hotels and innovative food brands – that’s exactly what he did. His blend of Western know-how and Indian business smarts laid the groundwork for what would become a multi-crore empire. It’s inspiring how education can pivot a family’s legacy, right?
Building the Business Empire: The Rise of Graviss Group
Fast forward to the core of Ravi’s career: he’s the chairman of the Graviss Group, a conglomerate that’s all about hospitality and food. Starting from humble family roots, Ravi expanded it into a giant with interests in luxury hotels and mass-market eats. One of his first big moves was transforming the old Natraj Hotel into the swanky InterContinental Hotel on Mumbai’s iconic Marine Drive. That place isn’t just a hotel; it’s a landmark where celebs and business tycoons hang out.
But Ravi didn’t stop at hotels. He spotted opportunities in the food sector and ran with them. In 1993, he brought Baskin-Robbins to India and the SAARC region, introducing those fun, flavorful ice creams to millions. Under his leadership, the group also grew brands like Kwality Ice Cream and the Gaylord restaurant chain. More recently, he launched The Brooklyn Creamery, targeting health-conscious folks with low-cal treats. His strategy? Partner with global brands to bring top-notch standards to India. It’s no wonder Graviss Food Solutions Private Limited hit Rs 624 crore in revenue for FY23-24, up 20% from the year before.
Key Ventures and Achievements: Milestones That Sweeten the Deal
Ravi Ghai’s achievements read like a highlight reel of business wins. He’s often called the “Maharajah of Ice Cream” for his role in popularizing premium scoops in India. Here are some standout bullet points that showcase his impact:
- Hotel Transformation: Turned the Natraj into InterContinental Marine Drive, elevating Mumbai’s luxury scene.
- Ice Cream Revolution: Introduced Baskin-Robbins in 1993, expanding to hundreds of outlets across India.
- Brand Expansions: Grew Kwality and Gaylord chains, plus launched Brooklyn Creamery for modern, health-focused consumers.
- Revenue Growth: Led Graviss to a 20% revenue jump in FY23-24, proving his strategies work even in tough markets.
- Global Partnerships: Built ties with international firms, bringing world-class hospitality and food standards home.
These aren’t just business moves; they’ve touched everyday lives, from family outings at ice cream parlors to stays at posh hotels. Ravi’s knack for spotting trends and scaling them has earned him respect in Mumbai’s elite circles.
Family Life and Recent News: Beyond the Boardroom
Of course, no profile is complete without the personal side. Ravi Ghai is a family-oriented guy, but like many tycoons, he’s had his share of ups and downs. He’s the grandfather of Saaniya Chandok, who made headlines on August 13, 2025, when she got engaged to Arjun Tendulkar in a cozy, private ceremony. This union links two Mumbai powerhouses – the Tendulkars in cricket and the Ghais in business. It’s got everyone talking about how these families represent old-school success meeting new-gen vibes.
On a tougher note, Ravi has faced family disputes. He accused his son Gaurav of taking control during his cancer treatment, involving claims of fraud and stopped allowances. It’s gone to arbitration, showing that even big empires have their challenges. Despite this, Ravi’s focus on legacy shines through, with his granddaughter’s engagement bringing positive light.
Legacy and Net Worth: A Lasting Impact
Wrapping it up, Ravi Ghai’s legacy is one of innovation and resilience. He’s not just built businesses; he’s shaped industries, making luxury accessible and treats irresistible. His net worth? Estimates peg it between Rs 800-1,000 crore, a testament to decades of smart decisions. But more than money, it’s about the jobs created, the brands loved, and the global touch he’s added to Indian hospitality.
In a city like Mumbai, where dreams are made, Ravi stands out as a self-made visionary. Whether you’re enjoying a scoop of Baskin-Robbins or admiring the Marine Drive skyline, there’s a bit of his magic in it. What do you think – is he the ultimate hotelier-ice cream baron? Drop your thoughts in the comments!