'We need to be more like them': Vedanta's Anil Agarwal says he loves working with Gen Z

The industrialist said his interactions with younger colleagues have influenced his own thinking, particularly around openness and learning.

Anil Agarwal, Chairman of Vedanta Resources, has shared his views on working with younger employees, expressing strong appreciation for Generation Z and their approach to work and well-being.

In a recent post on Instagram, the billionaire industrialist reflected on generational differences, noting that while many of his contemporaries remain cautious about younger professionals, his own experience has been markedly positive.

He pointed out that India is home to a significant Gen Z population and acknowledged that his perspective may not align with others in his age group. Despite this, he wrote that he enjoys collaborating with them, even though there are clear differences in habits and outlook.

“We have very little in common. For example, I have never used an app to track my sleep, but they do,” he said, drawing attention to generational contrasts in lifestyle and technology use.

Agarwal also highlighted what he sees as a defining characteristic of the younger generation — their emphasis on mental health and personal well-being. He observed that they actively encourage such practices and are unafraid to prioritise self-care.

“They are also the first generation who value mental health, and encourage others to do the same. The way they take breaks during the day, it shows they care about themselves,” he wrote.

Reflecting on changing social dynamics, he added: “Woh samay beet gaya, jab bachhe sirf buzurgo ki baat sunte the [The days when children simply followed whatever their elders said are over]. And honestly, that’s not a bad thing. This generation has ideas and is also more responsible, sensible, and creative than we give them credit for.”

The industrialist said his interactions with younger colleagues have influenced his own thinking, particularly around openness and learning.

“And the more time I spend around them, the more I’m learning that curiosity is really the best way to bridge gaps between people,” he wrote.

He went on to suggest that the responsibility for bridging generational divides does not rest solely on younger individuals.

“Instead of expecting them to become more like us, maybe we need to be more like them,” he added.

Ending on a lighter note, Agarwal hinted that he may adopt some of their habits himself, writing:

“On that note, maybe it’s time I give these sleep tracking apps a try. Will keep you updated on how it goes.”

The post drew a range of reactions online, with many users expressing agreement and appreciation for his outlook. Several responded with supportive comments.

“What a thought process, sir!!” one user wrote, while another added, “Love the way you welcomed Gen Z.”

According to Forbes, Agarwal’s net worth is estimated at approximately $4 billion. He is widely known for building a global mining business, having transformed a small scrap metal operation into the London-headquartered Vedanta Resources group.

Born in 1954, Agarwal studied at Miller School in Patna before entering business at a young age. He married Kiran Agarwal in 1975, and the couple had two children, Priya Agarwal and Agnivesh Agarwal.

Earlier this year, Agarwal shared news of a personal loss. His son, Agnivesh Agarwal,died in January 2026 following a medical emergency. In a message posted on X on January 7, he wrote:

“Today is the darkest day of my life. My beloved son, Agnivesh, left us far too soon. He was just 49 years old, healthy, full of life, and dreams. Following a skiing accident in the US, he was recovering well in Mount Sinai Hospital, New York. We believed the worst was behind us. But fate had other plans, and a sudden cardiac arrest snatched our son away from us.”