DRA Group and Balajadia Family Launch $100 Million Real Estate Platform in South India
Chennai-based DRA Group and the Balajadia family from the Philippines have launched a $100 million real estate platform, focusing on commercial and retail assets in South India.
Real EstateDra GroupBalajadia FamilySouth IndiaCommercial DevelopmentReal Estate NewsAug 08, 2025
The platform, which will be owned equally by both partners, marks the debut of a Filipino company in India's thriving realty market. It will initially focus on Grade A commercial and retail developments in Chennai and Bengaluru.
The first project—a 60,000 sq ft retail centre in Chennai's OMR corridor—is currently underway at an investment of $10 million. Another upcoming project is a 1.6-acre commercial centre in Chennai.
The platform has set a medium-term development target of over 1 million sq ft, with assets ranging from core central business district (CBD) plots to growth locations in suburban areas. The portfolio will comprise 70% commercial and 30% retail assets across Chennai and Bengaluru.
'The platform allows us to take a programmatic approach to both greenfield and value-add commercial projects, while de-risking through tenant pre-leasing and asset-backed capital deployment over the next three years,' said Ranjeeth Rathod, managing director, DRA Group.
For DRA Group, known for residential and mixed-use townships, the platform marks a shift into institutional-grade commercial and retail real estate. As part of the platform strategy, DRA plans to acquire 1.5-2 acre land parcels in high-absorption micro-markets having strong infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total investment in the real estate platform?
The total investment in the real estate platform is $100 million (about ₹876 crore).
What is the ownership structure of the platform?
The platform is owned equally by DRA Group and the Balajadia family.
Where will the initial focus of the platform be?
The initial focus of the platform will be on Grade A commercial and retail developments in Chennai and Bengaluru.
What is the first project of the platform?
The first project is a 60,000 sq ft retail centre in Chennai's OMR corridor, with an investment of $10 million.
What is the medium-term development target of the platform?
The medium-term development target of the platform is over 1 million sq ft, with assets ranging from core CBD plots to growth locations in suburban areas.
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