DUBAI : Sri Lankan Ishara Nanayakkara has been named one of the five billionaires in South Asia, Dubai- based Gulf News announced on Saturday ,August 9.
The Gulf News named South Asia’s billionaire titans: Mukesh Ambani, Shahid Khan, Mossa Bin Shamsher, Binod Chaudhary, and Ishara Nanayakkara — leaders of wealth across five nations.
As of 2025, Ishara Nanayakkara has emerged as Sri Lanka’s wealthiest person, overtaking Dhammika Perera. With a net worth of around $1.6 billion, he leads LOLC Holdings, a diversified financial services and investment conglomerate with operations in over 10 countries. Nanayakkara has played a pivotal role in expanding Sri Lanka’s presence in the global microfinance and insurance sectors.
As of 2025, Mukesh Ambani, chairman and managing director of Reliance Industries, continues to be the wealthiest person in India and South Asia, with a staggering net worth estimated at $118 billion. His diversified empire spans telecom (Jio), energy, petrochemicals, and retail, cementing his position as a global business magnate. But how does Ambani’s wealth compare to the wealthiest individuals in neighbouring South Asian countries like Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh?
Pakistan: Shahid Khan — $13.5 Billion: Shahid Khan, a Pakistani-American billionaire based in the U.S., is widely recognised as the wealthiest person of Pakistani origin. Born in Lahore, Khan made his fortune through Flex-N-Gate, an auto parts company. He also owns the Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL) and Fulham F.C. (UK football). His estimated net worth is $13.5 billion. In Pakistan itself, the wealthiest resident businessman is often cited as Mian Muhammad Mansha, with a net worth of around $3 billion. He heads the Nishat Group, involved in textiles, banking (MCB), and power generation.
Bangladesh: Mossa Bin Shamsher — Claims $12 Billion: In Bangladesh, Mossa Bin Shamsher is a well-known and controversial figure, often referred to as the wealthiest man in the country. He claims a net worth of over $12 billion, primarily from international arms brokerage and global business investments. However, these figures remain unverified by global financial rankings like Forbes. Regardless, Mossa remains a public figure known for his lavish lifestyle, political connections, and philanthropic efforts.
Nepal: Binod Chaudhary — $1.6 Billion: Nepal’s only billionaire, Binod Chaudhary, has a net worth of approximately $1.6 billion. Best known for his Wai Wai noodles brand, Chaudhary heads the Chaudhary Group (CG Corp Global), which operates in sectors ranging from FMCG and electronics to hospitality and real estate.Despite operating in a smaller economy, Chaudhary has managed to build a multinational presence, making him a unique success story in South Asia. Pictures courtesy, AFP AND BLOOMBERG
