“The pursuit of success is a fundamental aspiration shared by all individuals. Every action driven by purpose and commitment leads us to our desired destination.” Mohan Nair, also known as Mohan Balakrishnan Nair, is a living testament to this philosophy. From his humble beginnings in Kerala to becoming an icon of entrepreneurship in Gujarat, his story inspires generations.

From Accounting to Industry: The Early Years

Mohan Nair, armed with an M.Com and Chartered Accountancy (C.A.) qualification, began his career in accounting but soon transitioned into the chemical industry—a move that would define his future. Born to Balakrishnan and Sharada, Mohan’s family roots are in Kerala, but his father’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to Gujarat, Uganda, and Nigeria, influencing Mohan’s journey in business.

After completing his C.A., Mohan joined his father in Africa, later returning to Gujarat to work as General Manager with the Dalamal Group. In 1983, he founded Sabari Chemicals Pvt. Ltd., marking the beginning of a legacy that spans over three decades.

Building the Sabari Group: Vision and Dedication

Starting with a modest paid-up capital of ₹3 lakhs, Mohan Nair grew Sabari Chemicals into a thriving enterprise with a turnover exceeding ₹60 crores and employing over 330 people. Under his leadership, the company expanded from producing a single chemical, benzyl acetate, to 22 products including aromatic chemicals, drug intermediates, and plant growth regulators.

Mohan’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: “Excellence through quality.” This commitment is reflected in Sabari Chemicals’ ISO certifications (ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 14001:2015), GMP and GLP certifications, and long-standing international partnerships with companies in the USA, Vietnam, and Egypt.

Entrepreneurial Acumen and Diversification

Beyond Sabari Chemicals, Mohan Nair owns A&N Engineering Company Pvt. Ltd., which houses four engineering units. He has consistently demonstrated foresight by diversifying his business portfolio while ensuring high standards across all operations. His success is not only in profit but in establishing a company culture that values quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

Awards, Recognitions, and Industry Leadership

Mohan Nair’s contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including:

  • AIMA Achievement Award
  • Icon of Gujarat Award (Times of India)
  • Best Businessman Awards (2005 & 2013)
  • Quality India Award
  • National Glory of India Award
  • Rashtriya Nirman Ratna Award
  • Global Award for Best Malayalee Businessman (Bahrain)
  • Time Inspiring Leaders Award for Best Chemical Manufacturer
  • And many more

His leadership extends beyond business, serving as President, Vice President, or committee member of multiple NGOs and industry organizations, including the World Malayalee Council, All India Malayalee Association, and Nandesari Education Trust.

Commitment to Society and Social Responsibility

Mohan Nair firmly believes that success comes with a responsibility to society. He emphasizes empowering employees, supporting communities, and contributing to social causes. His engagement with NGOs, educational institutions, and disaster management initiatives reflects his vision of inclusive growth.

When asked about managing his time, he said, “God has given 24 hours to every living being on earth without any selfishness. How we spend this time determines our operational success.”

Family: A Source of Strength

Mohan Nair’s family has been a pillar of support throughout his journey. Married to Ila, he has two sons—Vinod, who is involved in the family business, and Vinit, an accomplished artist and gallery owner. His family reflects his values of dedication, creativity, and commitment to excellence.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Purpose

Mohan Nair’s story is a shining example of how vision, perseverance, and a strong sense of purpose can transform lives. From starting Sabari Chemicals with a small investment to receiving national and international recognition, including the AIMA Achievement Award and Icon of Gujarat Award, he embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship fused with social responsibility.

As he quotes Winston Churchill, “Success is not final; failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.” Mohan Nair’s journey inspires countless individuals to pursue their dreams relentlessly while making a positive impact on society.