Chennai, 19 November 2025: The Murugappa Group announces with deep sorrow the passing of Shri Arunachalam Vellayan (1953–2025), Chairman Emeritus of Coromandel International and Former Chairman of the Murugappa Group, earlier today after a prolonged illness. He is survived by his wife Mrs. Lalitha Vellayan, his sons Mr. Arun Vellayan, Mr. Narayanan Vellayan and grandchildren.
A distinguished leader and a valued member of the Murugappa family, Shri Vellayan dedicated several decades to the Group, providing strategic direction across its diversified businesses. His vision, integrity and long-term approach to value creation helped strengthen and expand the Group, contributing significantly to its reputation as one of India’s most respected conglomerates.
Shri Vellayan has served on the Boards of various companies in the Murugappa Group including as Chairman of Coromandel International Limited and EID Parry Limited. In addition, he has served on the Boards of companies such as Kanoria Chemicals & Industries Limited, EXIM Bank and Indian Overseas Bank. Shri Vellayan has held leadership positions in various industry and trade organizations including Southern India Chamber of Commerce, Fertiliser Association of India, Indian Sugar Mills Association and All India Cycle Manufacturers Association. He was the Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode (IIM-Kozhikode).
Shri Vellayan was an alumnus of The Doon School, Shriram College of Commerce, Aston University, UK and University of Warwick Business School, UK. He has been honoured with Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) by the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and Aston University, UK.
Admired for his sharp business insights, leadership clarity and unwavering commitment to the Group’s values, Shri Vellayan’s contributions have left a lasting imprint on the organisation, inspiring generations of leaders within the Group and beyond.
