Unveiling 'Made in India': The Journey of Lupin and Its Visionary Founder

On February 9, 2026, in Mumbai, the much-anticipated book Made in India was launched, chronicling the incredible life of Desh Bandhu Gupta, the founder of Lupin Pharmaceuticals. Written by Sundeep Khanna and Manish Sabharwal, the book recounts the evolution of the Indian pharmaceutical industry and its transformation from a country reliant on imports to becoming known as 'the pharmacy of the world.'

Desh Bandhu Gupta's narrative begins in a humble Rajasthan village, where his early life was shaped by adversity. Despite starting without privilege or support, he navigated the challenges of a harsh environment to establish a billion-dollar pharmacy empire that now serves patients across more than 120 countries.

Made in India is more than a biography; it is an exploration of Gupta's determination to bridge national health priorities with global standards. The authors describe how Gupta's unwavering ambition led him to leave teaching and pharmacy to pioneer a thriving business in the global pharmaceutical sector. It's a compelling account of entrepreneurship, highlighting the triumphs and tribulations involved in building one of the world's leading generic drug firms.

Co-authored by Sabharwal, the book sheds light on the failures and crises encountered along the way. It illustrates how personal sacrifices and resilience were instrumental in achieving success in the face of overwhelming odds. The narrative captures the essence of entrepreneurial spirit, demonstrating how institutions evolve through relentless perseverance and commitment.

The story does not end with Gupta; it also honors the contributions of his wife, Manju Gupta, who played a crucial role in Lupin's journey. Together, they established community services and rural support programs, emphasizing their commitment to social responsibilities while building a global pharmaceutical powerhouse.

As India has grown to become a leading provider of pharmaceuticals, the book outlines staggering statistics: nearly half of the 400 billion pills consumed yearly in the United States are manufactured in India, along with 60% of the world's vaccines. By analyzing the impact of Indian pharmaceutical giants like Lupin, Cipla, and Sun Pharma, the book dispels the notion that multinationals are the sole holders of competitive advantages, asserting that Indian firms can dominate complex sectors through visionary leadership and strategic policy advancements.

The launch event featured a lively discussion, bringing together pharmaceutical leaders such as Dilip Shanghvi of Sun Pharma and Dr. Yusuf Hamied of Cipla. They debated the industry's future and the critical role it plays in making healthcare accessible and affordable worldwide. Dedicating their remarks to Gupta, both Shanghvi and Hamied highlighted his vision and lifelong commitment to the pharmaceutical sector and the patients it serves.

Made in India serves not only as a source of inspiration for entrepreneurs but also as a valuable resource for young Indians and their families, encouraging ambition and exploration. It invites readers to consider India's place in the global context, underscoring the significance of innovation and leadership in building a more accessible healthcare future.

In conclusion, Lupin Limited stands as a testament to Gupta's legacy. Based in Mumbai, the company operates in more than 120 markets, specializing in both branded and generic formulations, biotechnological products, and active pharmaceutical ingredients. With over 24,000 employees and numerous state-of-the-art facilities worldwide, Lupin is committed to improving patient outcomes through its innovative products and community-driven initiatives. Its human welfare foundation has positively impacted millions across Indian rural communities, reiterating the company's focus on social responsibility amid its commercial success. For further insights, visit Lupin’s official site.