LONDON: A self-made billionaire and generous philanthropist who counts presidents and prime ministers among friends, Lord Swraj Paul is known for generosity of his heart. The world-renowned philanthropist runs numerous charities and is benefactor to various causes. Among the recipients of his countless contributions, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) holds a special place.
MIT, in October 2020, in recognition and honour of Swraj Paul and his son, named a 1,200-seat, large hall in the Kresge Auditorium as the ‘Lord Swraj Paul PC ’52 and Angad Paul ’92 Theatre’. For people at Cambridge area, it is commonly known as Swraj Paul Theatre at Kresge Auditorium.
The institute, one of the most prestigious and highly-ranked academic institutions in the world, is also the alma mater of Swraj Paul and his late son Angad Paul. The father and son duo graduated from MIT in 1952 and 1992, respectively.
The senior Paul studied mechanical engineering and his son, who passed away in 2015, studied economics at the institution. Earlier in 2020, Paul donated $5 million to support the landmark Eero Saarinen-designed Kresge Auditorium. It is MIT’s premier venue for world leaders, renowned musicians, distinguished speakers, and faculty and student presentations.
Reflecting on his experience at the MIT, Paul had said, “Education is one of the few things you can give away and, in giving, increase your own capacities.” He added: “During my time at the Institute, I saw how education was infused with the ethic of public service, and I applaud MIT for its continuing commitment to these ideals.”
Paul, born in Punjab, went to London in 1966. His company, Caparo Group, founded in 1968, has gained global recognition. Inspired by his own experience at MIT, Paul created a scholarship fund in 1987 to support institute’s students. In 2010, he donated $1 million to create a student lounge at the MIT Sloan School of Management.
