This Is Nepal's Only Billionaire, His Noodles Brand Is A Sleeper Hit In India

Last Updated:September 09, 2025, 19:24 IST

According to Forbes, his 2023 wealth is $1.8 billion. While smaller than Elon Musk or Mukesh Ambani, it’s a remarkable feat for a small country like Nepal

His business acumen led him to partner with global brands like Suzuki and Panasonic. (News18 Hindi)

In the heart of the Himalayas, Nepal’s only billionaire, has built a fortune of $1.8 billion (around Rs 15,000 crore), showcasing a remarkable journey of entrepreneurship.

At 69, Binod Chaudhary, chairman of Chaudhary Group (CG Corp Global), has built a formidable empire of 136 companies, from ‘Wai Wai’ noodles to Taj Hotels, spanning sectors like banking, hotels, FMCG, energy, education, and health.

Born into a Marwari family in Kathmandu, Chaudhary’s roots trace back to Rajasthan, India. His grandfather migrated to Nepal and laid the foundation of their business legacy. His father then opened Nepal’s first departmental store, a significant achievement at the time.

Although Chaudhary was expected to take over the family business, he initially aspired to become a chartered accountant and began his studies in India. However, he had to return home at the age of 18 due to his father’s illness, leaving his academic pursuits behind and entering the business world.

From Disco To ‘Wai Wai’

Chaudhary’s journey into entrepreneurship began with opening Nepal‘s most famous disco in Kathmandu in 1973, which quickly became a youth hotspot.

In 1984, Chaudhary launched ‘Wai Wai’ noodles, now a staple in kitchens across India and Nepal, especially loved by children and adults in North and Northeast India

His business acumen led him to partner with global brands like Suzuki and Panasonic, further bolstering his ventures.

Nabil Bank To Taj Hotels

In 1995, Binod Chaudhary made a strategic move by acquiring a controlling stake in Nabil Bank from the Dubai government, which has since become Nepal’s leading bank. His most successful endeavour, however, lies in the hospitality sector. Chaudhary Group boasts 143 hotels, including several 5-star establishments in collaboration with India’s renowned Taj Hotels, spread across Nepal, India, and Sri Lanka, epitomising luxury.

Empire Of 136 Companies

Chaudhary Group’s influence extends far beyond noodles and hotels. It encompasses sectors such as banking, real estate, telecom, energy, education, and health, with projects ranging from power initiatives in Nepal to electronics in India.

According to Forbes, Binod Chaudhary’s wealth in 2023 was $1.8 billion. Although this is modest compared to giants like Elon Musk ($247 billion) or Mukesh Ambani ($107.1 billion), it is a significant achievement for a small country like Nepal.

Bollywood Dreams, Tata-Mandela Inspiration

Chaudhary is an ardent fan of Bollywood, particularly of Amitabh Bachchan’s films. He draws inspiration from JRD Tata, who revolutionised Indian business, and Nelson Mandela, who demonstrated the power of change. Besides being a successful businessman, Chaudhary serves as a Member of Parliament in Nepal, adding another dimension to his illustrious career.

Sons Take The Helm

At 69, Binod Chaudhary has entrusted the future of Chaudhary Group to his three sons, Nirvan, Rahul, and Varun, who are poised to elevate the business further, ensuring the continued success of ‘Wai Wai’ and Taj Hotels.

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