Few stories in Indian business pack as much hustle, drama, and bold reinvention as that of Chinnakannan Sivasankaran. Once a young boy helping at his father’s modest tea stall and gazing at the world of business from afar, Sivasankaran—better known as Siva—would go on to found over 20 companies across diverse sectors, shaping an empire that redefined Indian telecom and left its mark on global industry.
Key Highlights: Humble Beginnings, Monumental Ambition
Born in 1956 in Tamil Nadu, Sivasankaran began his entrepreneurial journey early, first as a fabrication contractor for Chennai Petroleum Corporation before seeking bigger opportunities in technology and industry.
In 1985, Sivasankaran made a decisive move by acquiring Sterling Computers, quickly transforming it into one of India’s leading computer hardware brands by offering affordable personal computers, making digital technology accessible to a wider audience.
His vision was not limited to hardware—he saw potential in everything from shipping and agri-exports to realty, mineral water, and financial investments, reflecting his knack for spotting underserved markets and scaling them up.
Building the Telecom Empire: The Aircel Revolution
Sivasankaran’s greatest claim to fame came in 1999, when he founded Aircel, a pioneering mobile services brand that rapidly expanded across southern and eastern India, setting new benchmarks in pricing, rural coverage, and customer-centric innovation.
Under his leadership, Aircel grew from a regional operator to one of the country’s largest telecom brands, introducing affordable tariffs, innovative prepaid plans, and value-added services that connected millions—including those in previously neglected rural areas.
He showed a pattern of entering new markets fast and exiting at the top: Siva sold a majority stake in Aircel to Malaysia’s Maxis Communications in 2006, a deal at the heart of subsequent telecom sector controversies, but which cemented his status as a high-stakes dealmaker.
Serial Entrepreneurship and Bold Bets
Beyond telecom, Sivasankaran’s business universe spanned more than 20 companies—Barista Coffee (one of India’s first premium coffee chains), project engineering, shipping ventures, wind energy (WinWind in Finland), commodities trading, and acquisitions in sectors as varied as palm oil and mineral water in Africa and Europe.
He also founded Dishnet DSL, India’s first private DSL internet company, later sold to VSNL, again marking his gift for identifying upcoming trends before competitors.
Sivasankaran was relentless in making bold, sometimes risky moves—he famously tried to purchase Enron India’s assets for just one rupee and acquired everything from telecom licenses to international real estate, always with an eye for turnaround potential and exit profits.
Triumphs, Turmoil, and Unmatched Hustle
At its peak, his business group—Siva Ventures—was valued at over $3 to $4 billion, with trophy holdings including private islands and lavish real estate worldwide.
Yet, Sivasankaran’s journey was far from a smooth ascent. The crash of Aircel and subsequent bankruptcy saw him lose over Rs 7,000 crore, embroiling him in legal troubles and financial strain; but his spirit of resilience and honesty about his setbacks won admiration.
Siva’s philosophy, honed from years spent selling tea and scaling boardrooms, was simple: never fear risk, act fast, and move on when the writing is on the wall.
Lessons from the Life of Sivasankaran
Sivasankaran’s story offers inspiration for entrepreneurs from every walk of life—demonstrating that early adversity, the will to learn, and strategic reinvention can transform one’s destiny.
Known for exits as profitable as his bold entries, he remains an iconic example of hustle, foresight, and the courage to keep moving, whatever the outcome.
Siva now positions himself as “broke, not poor,” still optimistic, eager to find the next opportunity—living proof that entrepreneurship is a journey, not merely a destination.
Conclusion
C Sivasankaran’s life journey—from a tea stall in rural Tamil Nadu to the summits and setbacks of global business—captures the unstoppable energy that defines India’s entrepreneurial spirit. His legacy as a builder, risk-taker, and relentless hustler continues to inspire generations, reminding us all that every great empire starts with a bold move and an unwavering dream.
Sources: The Hindu Business Line, Wikipedia, BrU Times, News18, Economic Times
