A. Vellayan, former chairman of Murugappa Group, passes away at 72
A.Vellan. File | Photo Credit: Bijoy Ghosh
Arunachalam Vellayan, chairman emeritus of Coromandel International and former chairman of Murugappa Group, passed away in Chennai on Monday, November 17, 2025, after a prolonged illness. He was 72 years old.
He is survived by his wife Lalitha Vellayan, sons Arun Vellayan and Narayanan Vellayan, and grandchildren.
An eminent business leader and valued member of the Murugappa family, Mr. Vellayan has dedicated decades to the Group by providing strategic direction across its various business lines, the Murugappa Group said in an official statement.
His vision, integrity and long-term approach to value creation have helped strengthen and expand the Group and have significantly contributed to its reputation as one of India’s most respected conglomerates.
Mr Vellayan, Coromandel International Ltd. and served on the boards of various companies in the Murugappa Group, including Chairman of the Board of Directors of EID Parry Ltd.
He also served on the boards of companies such as Kanoria Chemicals & Industries Ltd, EXIM Bank and Indian Overseas Bank.
Mr. Vellayan has held leadership positions in various industrial and trade organizations, including the South India Chamber of Commerce, Fertilizer Association of India, Sugar Mills Association of India and All India Bicycle Manufacturers Association.
He was the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIM-Kozhikode).
Mr. Vellayan is a graduate of The Doon School, Shriram College of Commerce, Aston University, UK and the University of Warwick Business School, UK. He was honored with Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and Aston University, United Kingdom.
“Recognized for his keen business insights, leadership clarity and unwavering commitment to the Group’s values, Mr. Vellayan’s contributions have left a lasting mark on the organisation, inspiring generations of leaders within the Group and beyond,” the Murugappa Group said in a statement. he said.
It was published – 17 November 2025 16:59 IST
