At the ET World Leaders Forum 2025, Gautam Hari Singhania, Chairman and Managing Director of Raymond Ltd., shared his vision on how artificial intelligence (AI), deep technology, and innovation are shaping not only India’s industrial landscape but also the future of his own conglomerate.
Speaking on the sidelines of the forum, Singhania reflected on his personal journey of curiosity-driven learning, his take on India’s defense and tech ecosystem, and the path forward for Indian startups in an increasingly AI-powered world.
Curiosity as the Driver of Innovation
When asked about the inspiration behind venturing into AI and signal processing software, Singhania credited a lifelong curiosity for new technologies. “The biggest driver of all my initiatives has been curiosity,” he said, pointing out how this curiosity has led him to explore applications beyond Raymond’s core textile business—particularly in defense, where AI-driven signal processing is becoming mission-critical.
Deep Tech and National Priorities
Singhania emphasized the need for India to build indigenous solutions in defense and aerospace. With growing geopolitical challenges, he noted that homegrown deep-tech innovation in signal processing and communication systems is no longer optional. “India cannot depend on imports when it comes to mission-critical technology,” he remarked, highlighting the alignment between private enterprise innovation and the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Raymond’s Evolution Beyond Textiles
While Raymond is synonymous with fabrics and fashion, Singhania hinted at a broader transformation. The company is exploring diversification into technology-led solutions, not just as a business expansion but as a way of staying relevant in an AI-driven economy. “For me, it is about creating future-ready businesses while staying rooted in our legacy,” he said.
The Road Ahead
Looking ahead, Singhania stressed that AI will be the “game-changer of the decade” and that businesses—whether in fashion, defense, or finance—cannot afford to ignore it. His message to entrepreneurs: stay curious, stay patient, and build solutions that solve India’s real challenges.
“Curiosity, courage, and conviction will define the next generation of leaders,” he concluded.
Add Now!
Gautam Hari Singhania on AI and the Evolution of Raymond | ET World Leaders Forum 2025
“AI today is the buzzword. Everybody is talking about AI… Traditionally, all our clothes were designed by designers. We’re moving it all to IT technicians because data for design is available on the internet.” In this exclusive conversation at the ET World Leaders Forum 2025, Gautam Hari Singhania, Chairman & Managing Director of Raymond, shares how the 100-year-old brand embraces technology and artificial intelligence to enhance forecasting, improve production efficiency, and adapt to younger consumer bases.From redefining product development across 3,000 price points to building the largest tailoring ecosystem in India, Singhania explains Raymond’s journey of innovation—balancing legacy with the demands of a new, aspirational generation through “mass customisation” and more.
Speaking on the sidelines of the forum, Singhania reflected on his personal journey of curiosity-driven learning, his take on India’s defense and tech ecosystem, and the path forward for Indian startups in an increasingly AI-powered world.
Curiosity as the Driver of Innovation
When asked about the inspiration behind venturing into AI and signal processing software, Singhania credited a lifelong curiosity for new technologies. “The biggest driver of all my initiatives has been curiosity,” he said, pointing out how this curiosity has led him to explore applications beyond Raymond’s core textile business—particularly in defense, where AI-driven signal processing is becoming mission-critical.
Girish Tanti on Wind Energy and India’s Role in Green Innovation | ET World Leaders Forum 2025
“The build-up which has happened till now is now reaching a stage where… hitting the 100 gigawatt mark by 2030 looks almost certain for wind.”At the ET World Leaders Forum 2025, Girish Tanti, Co-founder and Vice-Chairman of Suzlon Group, reflects on India’s wind energy growth story, skill development in clean-tech, and the country’s global leadership in the renewable landscape.From aligning wind power generation with India’s consumption patterns to building strong skill development programmes for green jobs of tomorrow, Tanti highlights how India is driving one of the most cost-efficient and innovative clean-tech transitions in the world.
Deep Tech and National Priorities
Singhania emphasized the need for India to build indigenous solutions in defense and aerospace. With growing geopolitical challenges, he noted that homegrown deep-tech innovation in signal processing and communication systems is no longer optional. “India cannot depend on imports when it comes to mission-critical technology,” he remarked, highlighting the alignment between private enterprise innovation and the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Shiju SS on Brain-Like Intelligence and the Future of AI | ET World Leaders Forum 2025
At the ET World Leaders Forum 2025, Dr Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, positioned the state as both India’s cultural core and a rising economic powerhouse. With annual growth rates of 15–16%, he outlined an ambitious vision to double progress over the next five years by balancing welfare initiatives with development priorities.Highlighting Madhya Pradesh’s unique geographical advantages, abundant natural wealth, and reputation as the “motherland of rivers,” Dr Yadav described how the state has become a magnet for both tourists and investors. From Ujjain’s surge as a premier tourist destination to policy reforms enabling ease of doing business, Madhya Pradesh is carving out a distinctive place in India’s growth narrative.Watch the video for more such fascinating insights on Madhya Pradesh, which is not just the “heart of India” geographically, but also its next frontier of opportunity.
While Raymond is synonymous with fabrics and fashion, Singhania hinted at a broader transformation. The company is exploring diversification into technology-led solutions, not just as a business expansion but as a way of staying relevant in an AI-driven economy. “For me, it is about creating future-ready businesses while staying rooted in our legacy,” he said.
The Road Ahead
Looking ahead, Singhania stressed that AI will be the “game-changer of the decade” and that businesses—whether in fashion, defense, or finance—cannot afford to ignore it. His message to entrepreneurs: stay curious, stay patient, and build solutions that solve India’s real challenges.
“Curiosity, courage, and conviction will define the next generation of leaders,” he concluded.
Add 
as a Reliable and Trusted News Source
as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now!
In Video:
Gautam Hari Singhania on AI and the Evolution of Raymond | ET World Leaders Forum 2025
(This article is generated and published by ET Spotlight team. You can get in touch with them on etspotlight@timesinternet.in)
