Vivek Oberoi may have entered Bollywood with blockbuster dreams, but it’s his business acumen that’s truly making headlines today. From portraying intense roles on screen to sealing high-stake deals in boardrooms, Vivek’s journey from actor to entrepreneur is nothing short of cinematic. With a business empire now worth over ₹1,200 crore, Oberoi proves that failure in one arena can be the fuel for success in another.
In a candid conversation with Fortune India and on the Dubai Property Insider podcast hosted by Owais Andrabi, Vivek opened up about his transformation from being known as a Bollywood star to becoming a sharp, visionary businessman. What stands out in his story is not just the money he made, but how he made it through discipline, grit, and a head start in understanding the world of finance.
A Self-Made Journey
Vivek Oberoi Turned Career Setbacks into Startup Success, Despite being born into the glitzy world of cinema his father, Suresh Oberoi, is a respected veteran in the industry Vivek didn’t inherit wealth. He inherited wisdom. My father groomed me in economics and business from a very young age, Vivek said. He would give me products like perfumes, electronics, shoes, and I’d go door to door on my bicycle trying to sell them.
This wasn’t a game it was training. His father would critique his sales strategies, push him to think deeper about market positioning, pricing, and customer psychology. The lesson was simple but powerful Earn your own way. Suresh Oberoi reportedly told him, I am a rich man you are not. You will get there, but you have to do it on your own.
Early Brush with Big Money
Vivek Oberoi Turned Career Setbacks into Startup Success, By the age of 19, Vivek had already raised $3 million for his first business venture long before he had made a mark in Bollywood. I made a lot of money for my investors and myself, he revealed, adding that he successfully exited the venture by 23.
The entrepreneurial bug had bitten hard. Since then, Vivek claims to have taken nine companies public on the Indian stock exchange and plans to take four more. While many Bollywood stars venture into fashion, beauty, or restaurants, Vivek focused on high-yield sectors like real estate, sustainable luxury, and capital markets an unusual yet lucrative mix.
The Real Estate Magnet in UAE
Vivek Oberoi Turned Career Setbacks into Startup Success, One of the crown jewels in Vivek’s business portfolio is his presence in ultra-luxury real estate in the UAE. Operating in a market known for architectural marvels and global investors, Vivek has built a name for himself among real estate circles. He’s not just a figurehead; he’s involved in strategic decision-making, fundraising, and brand building for his ventures.
Dubai has emerged as a hub for Indian entrepreneurs in recent years, but Vivek’s approach is rooted in innovation. His real estate projects reportedly focus on sustainable luxury, offering environmentally conscious solutions without compromising on elegance and comfort a fast-growing niche in the Middle East.
Sustainable Jewellery A Passion Project
Vivek Oberoi Turned Career Setbacks into Startup Success, Another surprising entry in his business resume is his foray into sustainable jewellery. Unlike traditional gold and diamond empires, Vivek’s vision is about creating beauty with responsibility. His jewellery brand emphasizes ethical sourcing, recycled materials, and fair trade, catering to the conscious luxury consumer.
For Vivek, this isn’t just a business it’s a calling. In his own words, Sustainability is not just a buzzword; it’s the future. Whether it’s homes or jewellery, the world needs luxury that doesn’t harm the planet.
A Foundation, Not a Final Destination
Vivek Oberoi Turned Career Setbacks into Startup Success, Though his acting career didn’t hit the heights some expected after a promising start in Company, Saathiya, and Shootout at Lokhandwala, Vivek never let that define him. Instead, he used his celebrity status as a launchpad to enter circles that most entrepreneurs spend years trying to access.
His understanding of branding, media, and public perception sharpened during his film years now serves him well in business. Each of his companies carries a strong visual identity and storytelling component, something that’s clearly inspired by his Bollywood roots.
Lessons from the Oberoi Playbook
Here are a few key takeaways from Vivek Oberoi’s inspiring journey:
Start Young – Business instincts can be cultivated early. Those childhood lessons selling door-to-door laid the foundation for his confidence today.
Fail Forward – A stalled film career didn’t stop Vivek. Instead, he pivoted, upskilled, and diversified.
Self-Reliance – Despite being a star kid, he carved out his own fortune. No handouts. Just hustle.
Invest Wisely – From real estate in Dubai to ethical jewellery, Vivek puts his money in sectors that are both trendy and timeless.
Purpose-Driven Profits – Sustainability is a core value across his ventures. In a world moving towards ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance, he’s ahead of the curve.
A New Kind of Role Model
Vivek Oberoi might not top the list of Bollywood’s biggest stars today, but in the entrepreneurial world, he’s fast becoming an icon. With a ₹1,200 crore empire spanning multiple sectors, he’s a rare mix of star power and startup smarts. His story reminds us that life doesn’t always follow Plan A and that’s okay.
Whether it’s ringing the bell at the stock exchange or laying the foundation stone of a green skyscraper, Vivek Oberoi has found his stage. And this time, the spotlight is all his.
For the full scoop and in-depth analysis, read the complete report on Vivek Oberoi Turned Career Setbacks into Startup Success The Times of India
