The
Bajaj Group is amongst the top 10 business houses in India. Its
footprint stretches over a wide range of industries, spanning
automobiles (two-wheelers and three-wheelers), home appliances,
lighting, iron and steel, insurance, travel and finance.
The group’s flagship company, Bajaj Auto, is ranked as the
world’s fourth largest two- and three- wheeler manufacturer
and the Bajaj brand is well-known in over a dozen countries in
Europe, Latin America, the US and Asia.
Founded in 1926, at the height of India's movement for independence
from the British, the group has an illustrious history. The integrity,
dedication, resourcefulness and determination to succeed which
are characteristic of the group today, are often traced back to
its birth during those days of relentless devotion to a common
cause. Jamnalal Bajaj, founder of the group, was a close confidant
and disciple of Mahatma Gandhi. In fact, Gandhiji had adopted
him as his son. This close relationship and his deep involvement
in the independence movement did not leave Jamnalal Bajaj with
much time to spend on his newly launched business venture.
His son, Kamalnayan Bajaj, then 27, took over the reins of business
in 1942. He too was close to Gandhiji and it was only after Independence
in 1947, that he was able to give his full attention to the business.
Kamalnayan Bajaj not only consolidated the group, but also diversified
into various manufacturing activities.
The present Chairman and Managing Director of the group, Rahul
Bajaj, took charge of the business in 1965. Under his leadership,
the turnover of the Bajaj Auto the flagship company has gone up
from Rs.72 million to Rs.46.16 billion (USD 936 million), its
product portfolio has expanded from one to and the brand has found
a global market. He is one of India’s most distinguished
business leaders and internationally respected for his business
acumen and entrepreneurial spirit.
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