Respected Industrialist Arunachalam Vellayan Dies at 72 in Chennai

Arunachalam Vellayan, who served as chairman emeritus of Coromandel International and previously chaired the Murugappa Group, has sadly passed away in Chennai on November 17, 2025, following a long illness. He was 72 years old.

He leaves behind his wife, Lalitha Vellayan, sons Arun and Narayanan, as well as grandchildren.

An official statement highlighted his pivotal role in steering the Murugappa Group through several decades, bolstering the company’s strategic development and visionary goals. His dedication to value creation and ethical integrity immensely elevated the Group’s stature, making it one of India’s esteemed business entities.

Career Highlights

Vellayan had substantial influence on the boards of various Murugappa Group enterprises, including leading Coromandel International Ltd. and EID Parry Ltd.
Additionally, he was involved with multiple external bodies, including Kanoria Chemicals & Industries Ltd., EXIM Bank, and Indian Overseas Bank.

His contributions to different industry associations, such as the Southern India Chamber of Commerce and the Fertiliser Association of India, were notable. He chaired the Board of Governors at the Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode (IIM-Kozhikode), strengthening institutional leadership in academia.

Academic Achievements and Recognitions

Vellayan attended The Doon School, Shri Ram College of Commerce, and furthered his education at Aston University and the University of Warwick Business School in the U.K. His accomplishments earned him honorary Doctor of Science degrees from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and Aston University.

Tributes and Condolences

The Murugappa Group issued a statement honoring him as a leader recognized for his “keen business acumen, decisiveness, and steadfast adherence to the Group’s principles.” His influence remains an inspiration for future leaders.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin conveyed his condolences, remarking that Vellayan’s passing is a significant loss for the industrial landscape of Tamil Nadu, extending heartfelt sympathies to his family.

Venu Srinivasan, Chairman Emeritus of TVS Motor Company, also expressed his condolences, reminiscing about their long-term friendship. He acknowledged Vellayan as a personable, insightful business leader with extensive expertise in international trade, economics, and management. He termed him a “towering figure” and “institution builder,” emphasizing the profound loss felt within the industry and the nation.