From Jodhpur To Global Legacy: The Remarkable Journey Of Suresh Gandhi
Jodhpur — a city known for its royal legacy and architectural splendour — was also home to a young boy whose journey would one day mirror the spirit of perseverance and pride of his birthplace. Born into a modest, middle-class family, Suresh Gandhi, Founder and Chairman of Essgee Group, learned the values of knowledge, humility, and perseverance from his father, a teacher turned professor.After graduating in commerce in 1969, destiny steered him towards Mumbai, where in 1972 he qualified as a Chartered Accountant — marking the beginning of an extraordinary five-decade career. That same year, he embarked on three defining journeys: his professional path, his marriage, and his life’s mission to build and uplift.
Building Foundations with Kalpataru
Gandhi began his professional journey with Kalpataru Group under the mentorship of Mofat Raj Ji Munot. What started as a salaried role soon evolved into a trusted partnership that took him across India, the Middle East, and Russia.
In 1983, he was appointed Managing Director of Caprihans India, a company then struggling with losses. Through his strategic foresight and leadership, Caprihans transformed into a profitable, respected enterprise. His impact extended further as a promoter of Kalpataru Power, where he played a key role in operational management and corporate growth.
His leadership was soon recognised across the industry — he became Chairman of the Plastic Export Promotion Council (1994) and Vice Chairman of Plast India Foundation (1995). These milestones reflected not only his business acumen but also his commitment to shaping India’s industrial landscape.
Founding Essgee Group: A New Vision
In 2000, after nearly three decades of corporate leadership, Gandhi founded the Essgee Group of Companies, encompassing Essgee Realty and Essgee Power. His first independent projects — Yash Residency, VIP Plaza, and Yash Heights in Mumbai — established Essgee as a brand synonymous with integrity, design excellence, and lasting value.
But his heart remained tied to his roots. In 2003, he returned to Jodhpur with a vision that combined business with legacy — the creation of the Umaid Heritage Project, an integrated township that would redefine urban living in Rajasthan.
Umaid Heritage: A Tribute to Tradition and Innovation
The Bhoomi Pujan of Umaid Heritage was a moment of pride, graced by Maharaja Gaj Singh Ji of Marwar, Sunil Gavaskar, Deepak Parekh (Chairman, HDFC ), and C. L. Raheja (Chairman, Raheja Group).
Spread across 130 acres, Umaid Heritage features over 1,000 homes, including villas, apartments, and row houses. At its heart lies a traditional baawdi (stepwell) capable of storing 20 million litres of rainwater — a perfect blend of heritage architecture and sustainable engineering. The project also houses twin temples — one Jain and one Shiv — symbolising harmony and devotion.
Recognised as India’s Best Integrated Township, Umaid Heritage received the CNBC Real Estate Award in Singapore, standing as a testament to Essgee’s commitment to excellence.
Today, Essgee’s portfolio includes iconic projects such as Fortune Terraces and Essgee Options One in Mumbai — the latter winning the Times Iconic Commercial Award — alongside upcoming ventures at Hughes Road, Opera House, and a luxury villa community in Alibaug.
A Legacy of Compassion
Beyond business success, Gandhi’s true legacy lies in his philanthropic vision. He has dedicated much of his life to improving the lives of the underprivileged through education, healthcare, and inclusion.
He built the Netra Vikas Sansthan, a school and hostel for differently-abled children, and established a 120-bed Dharamshala, later entrusted to Mahaveer International. His initiatives include the Navjyoti Manovikas Kendra, a B.Ed. college that trains teachers for children with mental disabilities.
Through Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti, he has provided free artificial limbs, tricycles, wheelchairs, and physiotherapy services to thousands. His compassion extends to Naari Apna Ghar, a shelter for abandoned women in Jodhpur, currently home to over 120 residents, ensuring dignity, care, and love.
Service Beyond Borders
Gandhi continues his spiritual and social service as Trustee of Kalyan Ji Parmanand Ji Pedi, which manages numerous Jain temples, including the UNESCO-recognised Dilwara Temples. His commitment to national integration shines through his support for a school in Kupwara district, Kashmir, managed by the Indian Army.
As a Past President of the Rotary Club of Bombay North, Arch Klumph Society member, and trustee, he continues to embody Rotary’s motto — “Service Above Self.”
The Essgee Legacy: 25 Years and Beyond
Under his leadership, Essgee Group has become a diversified enterprise with interests in real estate, power, and ventures, delivering over 2 million sq ft across Mumbai and Jodhpur. Over 2,000 families now live and work within Essgee communities, reflecting trust built through decades of dedication.
Guided today by Gaurav Gandhi, Director of Essgee Group, the legacy continues with upcoming landmark developments such as Essgee Samaya (Hughes Road), Essgee Marine Crown (Opera House), and Essgee Vana (Alibaug).
A Life of Vision and Virtue
From the narrow lanes of Jodhpur to the corridors of global enterprise, Suresh Gandhi’s journey is one of grit, grace, and generosity. His life stands as proof that greatness is not defined by what we build, but by what we give back.
Through his enterprises, initiatives, and empathy, he has built not just structures, but a legacy — one rooted in faith, service, and the enduring belief that true success uplifts others.
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