A. Vellayan
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
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.
He is survived by his wife Lalitha Vellayan, his sons Arun Vellayan and Narayanan Vellayan, and grandchildren.
A distinguished business leader and a valued member of the Murugappa family, Mr. Vellayan dedicated several decades to the Group, providing strategic direction across its diversified businesses, said an official statement from Murugappa Group.
His vision, integrity, and long-term approach to value-creation helped strengthen and expand the Group, contributing significantly to its reputation as one of India’s most respected conglomerates, it said.
Mr. Vellayan had served on the boards of various companies in Murugappa Group, including as Chairman of Coromandel International Ltd. and EID Parry Ltd.
Additionally, he had served on the boards of companies such as Kanoria Chemicals & Industries Ltd, EXIM Bank, and Indian Overseas Bank.
Mr. Vellayan had held leadership positions in various industry and trade organisations, including Southern India Chamber of Commerce, Fertiliser Association of India, Indian Sugar Mills Association, and All India Cycle Manufacturers Association.
He was the Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode (IIM-Kozhikode).
Mr. Vellayan was an alumnus of The Doon School, Shriram College of Commerce, Aston University, U.K., and University of Warwick Business School, U.K. He had been honoured with Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) by the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and Aston University, U.K.
“Admired for his sharp business insights, leadership clarity, and unwavering commitment to the Group’s values, Mr. Vellayan’s contributions have left a lasting imprint on the organisation, inspiring generations of leaders within the Group and beyond,” Murugappa Group said in a statement.
Venu Srinivasan, Chairman Emeritus, TVS Motor Company on Mr. Vellayan’s demise. “I have known Vellayan for over six decades.
“He was extremely personable and helpful as a friend. As a business leader, he had a high level of business acumen and had a good grasp for men and matters, including international trade, economics, and general management.
“He was a tall leader of my generation. He was a great institution builder. It is an irreparable loss for industry and the country and I would personally miss him greatly.”
Published – November 17, 2025 04:59 pm IST
