Who is Tarun Gulati? Indian-Origin Investment Banker Competing in London Mayor Elections

The people of London are all set to choose a new mayor and 25 members for the London Assembly on May 2. Delhi-born investment banker Tarun Ghulati is challenging incumbent Sadiq Khan, who has completed two terms. Among the 13 candidates running for mayor, Ghulati, 63, is the sole contender of Indian origin.

Who is Tarun Ghulati?

Tarun Ghulati completed his education at the University of Jaipur and holds an MBA from Delhi University. His professional experience spans the Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, and the UK, with significant roles at Citibank and HSBC, including serving as an International Manager (IM).

He currently serves as the President and CEO of Squared Watermelon Ltd, based in London. Additionally, Ghulati has been a longstanding Committee member and former Deputy Chairman of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry Asian Business Association.

Ghulati is also a member of the Strategic Advisory Committee of the Global Cyber Alliance, which holds United Nations ECOSOC Special Consultative Status. His campaign focus, as reported by the BBC, centers on making London more “digitally connected.”

In his own words, Ghulati expressed, “People want someone different to run London, and I’m different because I’m not a politician.”

Regarding his heritage, Ghulati emphasized, “Being a person of Indian origin, I wear that as a badge of honour. It is a matter of pride for me. I am a proud Hindu. But I believe in the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam… My upbringing in India, the cultural traditions have helped me in my journey across the world… I view London as a global bank. It is a place where people come in for opportunities and growth, and different cultures thrive… As Mayor, I will build the balance sheet for London such that it is a premiere choice for investments, safeguarding safety and prosperity for all its residents.”

BBC also highlighted Ghulati’s focus on improving community cohesion in London, noting that “many communities are isolated, and people don’t feel a sense of belonging.”