Raj Kundra has been in news lately as Shilpa Shetty's New Love Interest. Here is a little background on Raj Kundra.
Raj Kundra, 29, is a self-made millionaire who was the youngest person to appear on last year's list of the Richest British Asians, in 198th position.
• What's your company and what does it do?
A: UK Tradecorp Limited, an international trading company deals in precious metals, stones, electronics.
• Where are you based?
A: West London
Job title: Managing director
Job title: Managing director
• What is your background?
A: My family is originally from Punjab in India but me and my siblings were all born here in the UK. My father, Bal Krishan Kundra, is a gold and diamond trader, who arrived in the UK over 40 years ago.
• Did you go to university?
A: No. But I am a keen traveller and have spent a number of years in India, Dubai and the Middle East, marketing and building contacts for my business venture.
• How did you get started?
A: I branched away from my family business to set up on my own when I was 21. I wanted to create a niche for myself and do something which would involve interacting with people and making contacts. I started off in 1997 with designer clothes and pashminas. The company RK Collections, imported luxury clothing for London fashion houses including Christian Dior. As I progressed and made new and affluent clients I just snapped onto the idea of international trading with them. That was almost three years ago.
• How did you go about setting up the business?
A: With the support of my family. My sister Renu in particular helped me all along and worked with me day in and day out to start the business. The rest of my family have been very supportive. My clients from my clothing days were also crucial providing the necessary business contacts and money advances.
• How have you and the company evolved?
A: I have learned mainly from my mistakes and my family's experience.
• Have you won any awards?
A: I won the young entrepreneur of the year at Natural History Museum in 2003 and was nominated at the Lloyds TSB Asian Jewel Awards last year.
A: I won the young entrepreneur of the year at Natural History Museum in 2003 and was nominated at the Lloyds TSB Asian Jewel Awards last year.
• How well are you doing financially?
A: My last audited accounts show a turnover of approx Sterling 40 million.
A: My last audited accounts show a turnover of approx Sterling 40 million.
• Is it all work, work, work?
A: I love keeping fit and travelling. I swim, do martial arts and exploring far-away destinations. I also love the sensational world of Bollywood movies. And I love spending quality time with my family and friends. They have been the pillars of my success. I owe all of it to my mum, dad and my sisters. Without their help, support and drive, I wouldn't have been able to achieve what I have.
A: I love keeping fit and travelling. I swim, do martial arts and exploring far-away destinations. I also love the sensational world of Bollywood movies. And I love spending quality time with my family and friends. They have been the pillars of my success. I owe all of it to my mum, dad and my sisters. Without their help, support and drive, I wouldn't have been able to achieve what I have.
• Do you have your fingers in other pies?
A: I have several business interests, such as Bollywood film distribution, but Trade Corp is where my priorities are.
• What tips do you have for young people wanting to take an entrepreneurial path?
A: - Believe in yourself and follow your instincts;
- trust and be trusted;
- never say no;
- work hard and don't deter from hardship;
- thank God for everything you have had and will have.
A: - Believe in yourself and follow your instincts;
- trust and be trusted;
- never say no;
- work hard and don't deter from hardship;
- thank God for everything you have had and will have.
Interview conducted by http://www.affilica.com/update12july.shtml
Update : Raj Kundra Shilpa Shetty engagemnt on October 24th
The much awaited question was finally popped, and what better time to do it than the auspicious day of Diwali. Our very own Shilpa Shetty is going to be all taken and engaged officially. Her London based beau Raj Kundra, who she has been dating ever since she stepped out of the Big Brother's house, has finally asked her the big question and she of course was more than happy to relent.
Saturday being a lucky day according to the Hindu calendar, the couple has therefore decided to go ahead with the ceremony and celebrations tomorrow at Raj Kundra's Juhu residence. The not so good news is that sister Shamita will have to probably miss out on big sister's grand moment considering she is in the Bigg Boss house.
Well! As they say the show must go on. Shilpa is all set for the big day and making her look like a perfect bride- to- be is Manish Malhotra, who would be dressing her up in a saree and Raj, who has always managed to look impeccable, is planning to take matters in his own hands.
The industry is abuzz wondering whether Shilpa would be saying adios to Bollywood post marriage. To put all stops to such talk, Raj has already made his intentions public. He is planning to shift base to Mumbai from London as he doesn't want his lady love Shilpa to cut all association with Bollywood. Love does conquer all!
Shilpa shetty got engaged to London businessman Raj kundra on October 24th.
She is spotted with her parents Sunanda and surendra shetty. Shamita shetty could not attend it as she was at the big boss house.
Shilpa shetty at her engagement with Raj kundra wore a Manish Malhotra saree.
The jewellery is designed by Anmol Jewellers.
Speakin about the saree Manish Malhotra said, "I have designed a very pretty pink saree with a red border for Shilpa. It's a very simple saree."
Anmol Jewellery partner Ishu Datwani said, "Yes we are designing the engagement jewellery for Shilpa. We have basically designed the necklace, earrings and bangles. All the jewellery has been custom made. We will also be designing her wedding jewellery but I am not authorised to speak about any more details right now."
The wedding will take place in December this year.
