Exploring the Life of Shahzada Dawood, Pakistani Tycoon and His Connection to India on Board the Titanic Submersible
Tragic Demise of Shahzada Dawood, Pakistani Businessman, and His Connection to India aboard the Titanic Submersible
New Delhi: In a devastating incident last week, a submersible journeying to the wreck of the Titanic in the North Atlantic Ocean met a catastrophic end, claiming the lives of one of Pakistan’s wealthiest individuals, 48-year-old Shahzada Dawood, and his 19-year-old son Suleman.
Shahzada, the vice-chairman of Engro Corporation, one of Pakistan’s largest fertilizer corporations and a subsidiary of Dawood Hercules Corporation, was a renowned figure in the corporate world. The Dawood Group, founded by his paternal grandfather Ahmed Dawood from Gujarat, has played a significant role in his family’s legacy.
Apart from his business ventures, Shahzada was actively involved in philanthropic activities. He served as a member of the Global Advisory Board for the Prince’s Trust International, a charity led by King Charles. He was also associated with organizations like the SETI Institute and the Dawood Foundation, focusing on education accessibility in Pakistan.
Residing in the UK with his wife Christine and two children, Shahzada and Suleman, Shahzada had an impressive career spanning over two decades. He was recognized for his expertise in corporate governance, industry transformation, and his contributions to international networks.
Tragically, Shahzada and his son lost their lives when the Titan submersible experienced a catastrophic implosion during its descent to the Titanic wreck, which rests 12,000 feet below the sea surface. Three other members of the expedition, Paul-Henri Nargeolet, a French maritime expert and submersible pilot, Stockton Rush, the CEO of OceanGate Expeditions, and British billionaire Hamish Harding, also met the same fate.
The US Coast Guard recently announced the discovery of the remains of the submersible near the wreck of the iconic liner.
According to reports, Shahzada had a passion for photography, a compassionate outlook toward animals, and a childhood fascination with the ill-fated Titanic. His sister, Azmeh Dawood, revealed that Suleman had reservations about the expedition and had joined only to please his father on Father’s Day.
The Dawood Group, founded by Ahmed Dawood, is a prominent conglomerate that encompasses various industries and philanthropic initiatives. After migrating to Pakistan in 1947, Ahmed established multiple successful enterprises such as Dawood Cotton Mills, Dawood Shipping Company, and Dawood Hercules Chemicals. Despite facing challenges, the Dawood Group emerged as one of the largest business groups in Pakistan under the guidance of Shahzada’s father, Hussain Dawood.
Shahzada Dawood, with his academic background and business acumen, played a vital role in identifying growth opportunities for the Dawood Group. He was actively involved in facilitating mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures in several industries.
Described as a loving father and a passionate advocate for learning, sustainability, and diversity, Shahzada made significant contributions to society through his work with various foundations and organizations. His interests extended beyond business and included wildlife photography, exploring natural habitats, and promoting social impact.
The tragic incident has left a void in the business and philanthropic communities, and the Dawood family, in their statement prior to the discovery of the submersible’s remains, expressed their grief over the loss of Shahzada and Suleman. The family highlighted Shahzada’s dedication to promoting learning and sustainability, while Suleman was remembered as an avid admirer of science fiction literature and a seeker of knowledge.
