Arunachalam Vellayan, chairman emeritus of Coromandel International and former chairman of Murugappa Group, passed away in Chennai on Monday (November 17, 2025) after a prolonged illness. He was 72.
He is survived by his wife Lalitha Vellayan, his sons Arun Vellayan and Narayanan Vellayan, and grandchildren.
A distinguished business leader and a valued member of the Murugappa family, Mr. Vellayan dedicated several decades to the Group, providing strategic direction across its diversified businesses, said an official statement from Murugappa Group.
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, it said.
Mr. Vellayan had served on the boards of various companies in Murugappa Group, including as Chairman of Coromandel International Ltd. and EID Parry Ltd.
