The Rise and Fall of Vijay Mallya: A Look at His Wealth, Wives, and Controversial Lifestyle
Vijay Mallya, the former chairman of United Breweries Group (UBG) and Kingfisher Airlines, built a reputation for luxury and high-flying ventures. His companies spanned brewing, aviation, and sports, making him a prominent figure in Indian business. However, mounting debts and allegations of financial irregularities eventually led to his flight from India in 2016, facing charges of money laundering and loan defaults.
Mallya’s lifestyle was the stuff of legends. He was known for hosting extravagant parties, owning multiple luxury properties, and showcasing a fleet of high-end cars. His passion for Formula 1 racing, with the Sahara Force India team, further amplified his image as a man of immense wealth and ambition. He frequently travelled in private jets, and his social circle included celebrities and influential figures from around the globe. The scale of his spending often drew criticism, especially as his businesses faced financial difficulties.
Mallya's personal life has been a subject of considerable public interest. He has been married three times:
- Sikta Kirloskar: His first wife, Sikta, is the daughter of industrialist V.K. Kirloskar. They married in 1993 but divorced in 2003. The divorce settlement was reportedly significant.
- Sameera Bali: Mallya married Sameera Bali in 2006. Their marriage was relatively private, and they divorced in 2010.
- Preeti Sekhon: His current wife, Preeti Sekhon, is a British citizen. They married in 2015.
The complexities of his marital history, coupled with the controversies surrounding his financial affairs, have added layers to the public's perception of Vijay Mallya.
At his peak, Vijay Mallya’s net worth was estimated to be in the billions of dollars. His assets included:
- Numerous properties in India and abroad.
- A collection of luxury cars, including Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and Rolls-Royces.
- Shares in various companies within the UBG.
- Ownership of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) cricket team.
However, due to legal proceedings and asset seizures, his net worth has significantly diminished. Indian authorities have been actively pursuing the recovery of funds owed to banks and creditors.
Vijay Mallya remains an absconder, facing extradition proceedings in the UK. His legal battles with Indian banks and regulatory bodies continue, with authorities seeking to recover the substantial loans he defaulted on. The case has become a symbol of India’s struggle to combat financial crime and hold powerful individuals accountable. While the 'King of Good Times' may have enjoyed a period of unparalleled luxury, his story serves as a cautionary tale of ambition, excess, and the consequences of financial mismanagement.
