Inauguration of the Shashi Ruia Memorial Golf Championship Announced

Introduction to the Shashi Ruia Memorial Golf Championship

The DP World Professional Golf Tour of India (DP World PGTI) and the Essar Foundation have officially unveiled the Shashi Ruia Memorial Golf Championship, a new annual event set to enrich India's professional golf scene. This tournament pays tribute to the late Shashi Ruia, co-founder of Essar Group alongside Ravi Ruia. Shashi Ruia was a prominent business figure who transformed Essar from a focus on infrastructure into a global investment powerhouse with diverse interests spanning energy, infrastructure, metals, mining, technology, and retail. His legacy is characterized by a strong commitment to entrepreneurship, institutional growth, industrial advancement, and philanthropy.

Details of the Tournament and Collaboration

The Shashi Ruia Memorial Golf Championship will be held annually until 2031, thanks to a five-year collaboration between DP World PGTI and the Essar Foundation. The inaugural tournament is scheduled for January 12-15, 2027, at the Willingdon Sports Club in Mumbai, attracting top professional golfers from across the nation. The event will feature a prize pool of ₹2 crore, with a Pro-Am event taking place on January 10, 2027.

Insights from Leadership

Kapil Dev, President of DP World PGTI, expressed, "The launch of this championship is a significant milestone for professional golf in India. We are excited to partner with Essar Group to honor the vision and contributions of its founders, Ravi and Shashi Ruia. Hosting this event in Mumbai, the financial hub of India, will enhance the visibility of professional golf and showcase the talent within the country."

Prashant Ruia, Group Chief Executive of Essar Group, shared his personal connection to golf, stating, "My father cherished this game, and it was a source of joy for him. We are thrilled to commemorate his legacy through this championship, hoping it inspires more people to engage with the sport."

Amit Bajaj, Managing Director & Global Head of Corporate Affairs at Essar, noted, "Our partnership with DP World PGTI underscores our dedication to fostering professional golf in India. This championship will serve as a platform for both established and emerging golfers to excel."

Amandeep Johl, CEO of DP World PGTI, remarked, "Essar Group's commitment is a strong endorsement of the future of professional golf in India. With a generous prize purse, this championship will elevate competition and provide a stage for showcasing talent. We aim to make this event a key highlight on the DP World PGTI calendar, honoring Shashi Ruia's legacy while promoting the growth of golf in India."

About Willingdon Sports Club

Established in 1917, Willingdon Sports Club is one of Mumbai's premier sporting venues. Its 18-hole golf course, inaugurated in 1933, is centrally located in South Mumbai. The names of the participating professionals will be announced as the event date approaches.