Rekha Jhunjhunwala, recognized as one of the wealthiest women by Forbes in 2022, has been navigating life’s complexities following the passing of her husband, the renowned stock trader and billionaire Rakesh Jhunjhunwala. With a net worth of $5.7 billion at the time, Rekha Jhunjhunwala has emerged as a notable figure in both business and personal spheres.
In an intimate interview with Hindustan Times, Rekha Jhunjhunwala shared her perspective on life before and after her husband’s departure, highlighting the significance of embracing change and learning to move forward. Amidst this transformation, Rekha resides in her new abode, a 14-storey bungalow on Ridge Road, Malabar Hill, Mumbai, transitioning from her cherished penthouse at Il Palazzo.
However, this new house symbolizes more than just a change of address; it embodies memories shared with her late husband. Rakesh Jhunjhunwala had acquired the impressive residence through a phased purchase between 2013 and 2017 for approximately ₹370 crore. The residence’s construction replaced the previous building, aligning Rakesh Jhunjhunwala with other prominent figures like Mukesh Ambani, Kumarmangalam Birla, and Sajjan Jindal, all known for their opulent abodes in South Mumbai.
Rekha Jhunjhunwala’s stature in the financial landscape is evident through her valuable holdings, notably including watch and jewellery maker Titan, a part of the Tata Group. Titan’s shares experienced a 65% growth, contributing significantly to Rekha’s gains in the stock market. Her involvement extends beyond financial pursuits, with Rekha expressing her interest in participating in the company’s philanthropic initiatives.
While the loss of Rakesh Jhunjhunwala created a profound impact, Rekha is committed to protecting his legacy and ensuring their children understand his values. She emphasized the importance of preserving his thought process and value system, reflecting a desire to carry forward his influence and teachings. As she steps into a more active role within the business, Rekha acknowledges the significance of her late husband’s contributions and decisions in securing their family’s future.
Rekha’s reminiscences of Rakesh Jhunjhunwala shed light on their unique relationship. They both belonged to a quasi-joint family, sharing a deep connection that encompassed personal and professional aspects. Anecdotes highlight Rakesh’s playful nature, from selecting Breach Candy Hospital as a destination on a food delivery app while he was hospitalized to his playful renditions of Mohammad Rafi’s song ‘Rekha o Rekha, jab se tumhein dekha’. Rakesh Jhunjhunwala’s multifaceted personality is further illuminated through his culinary preferences, evident in his preference for piping hot meals and spontaneous dining choices.
Rekha Jhunjhunwala’s journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to upholding a legacy while charting her own path. In her words, “moving on” is a process that entails embracing life’s twists and turns, learning, and honoring the remarkable journey that was and continues to be.