In the 73rd episode of Jam with Sam, we had the privilege of hosting Saurabh Sonawala, a seasoned technology expert and business leader. As the driving force behind Hindutron, Saurabh shared his insights on the evolution of IT in India, entrepreneurship, technology trends, and the challenges of running a niche business. This conversation takes us through his journey from Mumbai to IIT Madras, the University of Washington, and eventually leading his family business, offering a rare glimpse into the past, present, and future of IT in India.
A Mumbaikar at Heart with a Global Perspective
Born and raised in Mumbai, Saurabh’s educational journey started at New Era School, a mix of Gujarati and English medium education, followed by St. Xavier’s College for his pre-university studies. He then pursued engineering at IIT Madras, where he had his first hostel experience, an eye-opening phase that exposed him to diverse perspectives from all over India.
His academic pursuit took him to the University of Washington in Seattle, where he earned his Master’s in Computer Engineering. His time in the US broadened his horizons, but despite the opportunities abroad, India remained his true calling.
Hindutron: A Legacy of IT Innovation
Saurabh’s entrepreneurial journey wasn’t about starting from scratch but rather building upon his father’s legacy. Hindutron, founded in 1971, was one of India’s earliest IT pioneers, even before TCS.
Initially, Hindutron was a major player in the Indian IT landscape, forming joint ventures with global giants like Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC). However, the late 90s brought massive changes with the arrival of multinational tech firms. This prompted Hindutron to pivot into a niche-focused company, choosing to work with cutting-edge technologies rather than competing with IT behemoths like Infosys and Wipro.
Saurabh emphasized that as technology evolves, so must businesses. Hindutron transitioned from being a PC distributor in the 80s to specializing in scientific solutions, automation, and supercomputing. They continue to stay ahead by adapting to emerging fields like warehouse automation and AI-driven solutions.
Navigating IT & Government Regulations
India’s IT industry has undergone significant regulatory shifts over the decades. Saurabh recalled how in the pre-liberalization era, importing computers required licenses, even for industry giants like Reliance. His company played a crucial role in navigating these challenges, providing data services at a time when buying foreign computers was nearly impossible.
He also spoke about the US-India trade restrictions post-Pokhran nuclear tests, which made importing high-tech equipment extremely difficult. As a founding member of the US-India Importers Council, Saurabh worked closely with the US Consulate in Mumbai to facilitate smoother trade relations, ensuring that import restrictions didn’t stifle India’s technological growth.
The Changing Landscape of Business & Startups
When asked about entrepreneurship and innovation, Saurabh highlighted an ideal balance between experience and fresh ideas. While young entrepreneurs bring enthusiasm, seasoned professionals provide the foresight to avoid pitfalls.
This aligns with recent studies showing that investors are increasingly backing entrepreneurs over 40, as they combine industry experience with strategic execution. Hindutron itself is a testament to this philosophy, continuously adapting to new technologies while leveraging decades of expertise.
Life Beyond Business: Rotary, Music & History
Beyond IT, Saurabh is actively involved in Rotary Club initiatives, focusing on philanthropy and networking. A member since 1993, he believes Rotary offers something for everyone—whether it’s community service, professional networking, or leadership development.
His personal passions include music, history, and reading. He enjoys old Hindi classics and Indian classical music, while also being an avid reader of historical and scientific literature.
Conclusion
Saurabh Sonawala’s journey is a blend of legacy, adaptability, and strategic foresight. From witnessing the rise of IT in India to steering Hindutron towards niche technology solutions, his story is a lesson in staying ahead of industry trends while staying true to one’s core values.
As businesses continue to evolve, leaders like Saurabh show that success isn’t just about chasing trends, but about knowing when to pivot, innovate, and create lasting impact.
About Saurabh Sonawala:
Saurabh Sonawala is a business leader, technologist, and industry expert, currently at the helm of Hindutron, a niche technology solutions company. An alumnus of IIT Madras and the University of Washington, he has played a crucial role in shaping India’s IT landscape. Beyond business, he is an active Rotarian, a history buff, and a music enthusiast.