Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) has been a cornerstone of Indian television for over 25 years, consistently capturing audiences with its mix of knowledge and luck. Hosted by the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, the show has created numerous millionaires over the years. However, the first-ever crorepati to emerge from its inaugural season in 2000 was a young and ambitious Harshvardhan Nawathe. At just 27 years old, he became a household name. Today, at 52, he has carved out a successful career in the corporate world, currently serving as the CEO of a reputed organization.
Leading the Way at JSW Foundation
As of December last year, Harshvardhan Nawathe took on the role of CEO at JSW Foundation, the social development arm of the JSW Group, according to HR Today. In this capacity, he oversees the foundation’s strategic initiatives and social impact programs across India. Prior to this promotion, he had been serving as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the foundation since May 2023.
His professional journey has been deeply rooted in corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability. Before joining JSW Foundation, he played a crucial role at NatWest Group as Director and Head of Sustainable Banking Performance, Frameworks, Giving, and Governance. His previous tenure at Welspun Group saw him holding leadership positions such as Vice President – Group CSR and Chief Operating Officer of Welspun Foundation, where he developed and led impactful social responsibility initiatives.
Harshvardhan’s expertise in CSR was also evident during his time with Mahindra Group, where he managed group-level social initiatives and ensured alignment with sustainable development goals. Additionally, his work with Naandi Foundation focused on large-scale projects in education and water accessibility, reflecting his long-standing commitment to social change.
Life After KBC: A Transformational Journey
Recently, Harshvardhan Nawathe made a special appearance on KBC, reflecting on how the show changed his life. In a 2021 interview with Hindustan Times, he spoke candidly about the impact of winning the game show. “The recognition and financial security that came with KBC were life-changing. People started looking at me differently, and I got the opportunity to be part of some incredible platforms,” he shared.
Despite the whirlwind of fame, he remained grounded, knowing that the excitement would eventually fade. “One has to be clear about the direction they want to take in life to sustain success. The initial months after winning were like living the life of a rock star. There were people waiting for autographs outside my building, and even stepping out required security. For a long time, I had police protection,” he recalled.
From a young quiz champion to a corporate leader, Harshvardhan Nawathe’s journey is a testament to resilience and vision. His story proves that success is not just about a single moment of triumph but about the journey that follows.
