This is when the second hero enters: Qimat Rai Gupta. His life is a lesson in hard work, determination and long-term vision. Born in 1937 in Malerkotla, Punjab, he grew up in a simple business family. From childhood he learned the value of hard work and strong relationships. In the 1950s he moved to Delhi in search of opportunities. He had little money but a big dream. He started a small trading business in Bhagirath Palace, the major electrical market.

Gupta had a rare insight—not just what customers bought, but why they bought it. He realised customers prefer trustworthy names. Electricians also trusted familiar, reliable products. He sensed that India was entering a major growth phase and people wanted safe, high-quality, technologically advanced electrical brands—not just cheap goods.

So, in 1971 when the opportunity came to buy the Havells brand name, he grabbed it without hesitation. Overnight, a small trader became the owner of a major brand. It was bold and risky, but Gupta believed that big dreams demand brave decisions. He was convinced Havells would one day become a global name.

Over the next decades, his belief proved right. In the 1970s–80s, he built modern factories to manufacture switches, cables, meters and electrical equipment. He knew that in-house manufacturing ensured quality. While other companies relied on imports or outsourcing, Gupta focused on self-owned factories—making Havells solid and reliable.

He also built a massive distribution network across India. Dealers and electricians trusted Havells because the products were always safe, durable and high-quality. Customers naturally followed.

After 1990, the company grew even faster. Gupta realised branding would shape the future. While competitors ignored advertising, Havells invested heavily in marketing, packaging and a distinct visual identity. Havells soon stood out. The brand expanded into fans, lighting, wires, cables and home appliances.

Havells then acquired several Indian brands—Standard Electricals, Duke Arnics, and Eicher’s switchgear division, expanding products, technology and market reach. Gupta had a talent for identifying undervalued companies and turning them around.

But the biggest leap came in 2007, when Havells acquired the iconic European company Sylvania for nearly USD 300 million. Overnight, Havells became a global company operating in 50+ countries. Sylvania’s technology and market access were game-changing.

But soon after the acquisition, the global recession hit. Europe suffered heavily. Sylvania, already cost-heavy and outdated, slipped into huge losses. Critics mocked the acquisition. But Gupta didn’t back down. He said: “When there’s a problem, there’s always a solution.”

For three years Havells worked relentlessly—closing loss-making plants, restructuring teams, improving supply chains and modernising products. Slowly Sylvania stabilised. By 2012 it returned to profit. What many called a mistake became one of Havells’ biggest victories.

Back in India, Havells grew rapidly. The company launched Havells Galaxy Stores, modern retail outlets offering all products under one roof. These strengthened the brand image. Havells focused heavily on innovation and design—smart switches, energy-efficient fans, modern lighting, stylish appliances and smart-home products turned Havells into a lifestyle brand.

In 2014, after Qimat Rai Gupta’s passing, his son Anil Rai Gupta took charge. He modernised the company further—making it younger, more tech-driven and future-ready. Massive automated factories were established in Neemrana, Alwar, Haridwar and Baddi.

Today, Havells is a vast empire. Havells Studio serves the premium interior segment with stylish, high-end electrical fittings. The main Havells brand leads in wires, cables, switchgear, fans, kitchen appliances and lighting. Under Lloyd, customers get ACs, TVs, washing machines and appliances known for reliability. Havells Crabtree is the premium switchgear brand combining design and safety. REO offers budget-friendly, dependable electrical products.

This portfolio helps Havells serve consumers across price segments and lifestyles.

Today Havells operates in 60+ countries, has 14 state-of-the-art factories, 800+ Galaxy stores, and India’s largest distribution network. The company has crossed ₹22,000 crore+ in revenue. With thousands of employees and millions of customers, Havells is one of India’s most trusted and successful brands.

What began as a tiny Delhi shop is now a global powerhouse. And it teaches us one powerful truth — With ambition, determination and the right intent, even a small spark can light up the world.

Writer: Sanjay Satalkar
Consultant in Advertising & Marketing