Sanjeev Bikhchandani is a name synonymous with innovation and perseverance in India’s startup ecosystem. As the founder of Naukri.com, India’s first and largest online job portal, he revolutionized the way millions find employment, bridging the gap between job seekers and employers in the digital age.
A visionary entrepreneur, Bikhchandani’s journey from an economics graduate to a billionaire business magnate exemplifies how foresight, resilience, and adaptability can transform an industry. Beyond Naukri.com, his ventures like Jeevansathi.com, 99acres.com, and Shiksha.com have further cemented his legacy as a pioneer of India’s internet boom.
Key Information
| Personal Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Sanjeev Bikhchandani |
| Date of Birth | June 29, 1963 |
| Age | 62 years (as of 2025) (turning 62 in about 2.5 months) |
| Place of Birth | New Delhi, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Economics from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University |
| MBA from Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ahmedabad | |
| Occupation | Entrepreneur, Founder of Info Edge (India) Ltd. |
| Known For | Founder of Naukri.com and Info Edge |
| Spouse | Surabhi Bikhchandani |
| Children | Two |
| Net Worth | $1.5 billion |
| Awards | Padma Shri (2020), among others |
| Famous Platforms | Naukri.com, Jeevansathi.com, 99acres.com, Shiksha.com |
| Philanthropy | Actively involved in philanthropic work, supporting young entrepreneurs |
| Investments | PolicyBazaar, Zomato, among others |
Early Life and Education
Sanjeev Bikhchandani, a pioneering Indian entrepreneur, was born on July 30, 1963, in New Delhi. He completed his schooling at Modern School, Barakhamba Road, and later pursued a degree in Economics from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University. He further earned an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIM-A) in 1989.
Career Beginnings
Before venturing into entrepreneurship, Bikhchandani worked with Hindustan Lever (now Hindustan Unilever) and Asian Paints. However, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to explore new opportunities in the emerging digital landscape of India.
Founding Info Edge and Naukri.com
In 1990, Bikhchandani co-founded Info Edge (India) Ltd. along with his wife, Ritu Bikhchandani. The company initially struggled but eventually found success with the launch of Naukri.com in 1997, India’s first and largest online job portal.
Under his leadership, Info Edge expanded its portfolio to include other successful platforms like:
- Jeevansathi.com (matrimonial site)
- 99acres.com (real estate portal)
- Shiksha.com (education portal)
Achievements and Recognition
- First Indian internet company to go public (Info Edge IPO in 2006).
- Recognized as one of the most influential entrepreneurs in India.
- Received the “Entrepreneur of the Year” award by The Economic Times in 2008.
- Featured in Forbes Asia’s “Heroes of Philanthropy” list in 2018.
Philanthropy and Investments
Bikhchandani is actively involved in education and entrepreneurship initiatives. He has supported startups through investments and mentors young entrepreneurs. He is also associated with Ashoka University as a donor and advisor.
Personal Life
Sanjeev Bikhchandani is married to Surabhi Bikhchandani, and the couple has two children. He is known for his humble personality and strong work ethic.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Sanjeev Bikhchandani’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 billion (₹12,500+ crores), making him one of India’s wealthiest self-made entrepreneurs.
Padma Shri Award
Bikhchandani’s contributions to the Indian internet ecosystem have been widely recognized. In 2020, he was honored with the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, for his exceptional contributions to trade and industry.
Interesting Facts About Sanjeev Bikhchandani
- Pioneer of India’s Internet Boom – Sanjeev Bikhchandani launched Naukri.com in 1997, long before Google became popular in India, making it one of the country’s earliest successful internet ventures.
- Struggled for Years Before Success – Naukri.com took five years to become profitable, and Bikhchandani even mortgaged his wife’s jewelry to keep the business afloat during tough times.
- First Indian Internet Company to Go Public – His company, Info Edge (India) Ltd., made history in 2006 by becoming the first Indian internet firm to list on the stock market (IPO).
- Early Rejection of a Big Buyout Offer – In the early 2000s, a major global company offered to buy Naukri.com for $2 million, but Bikhchandani refused, believing in its long-term potential. Today, Info Edge is worth billions.
- From Corporate Job to Entrepreneurship – Before starting his own business, he worked at Hindustan Unilever and Asian Paints, but left the corporate world to chase his entrepreneurial dreams.
- A Serial Investor in Startups – He has invested in several successful startups, including Zomato (where Info Edge was one of the earliest backers) and PolicyBazaar.
- Passion for Education & Mentorship – He is a strong advocate for education and serves on the board of Ashoka University, contributing to shaping India’s liberal arts education.
- Forbes Philanthropy Recognition – In 2018, he was named in Forbes Asia’s “Heroes of Philanthropy” list for his contributions to education and social causes.
- Believes in Bootstrapping – Unlike many modern startups that rely heavily on VC funding, Bikhchandani built Naukri.com with minimal external investment, proving the power of sustainable growth.
- Still Actively Involved in Business – Despite his massive success, he remains hands-on, mentoring young entrepreneurs and exploring new digital opportunities.
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