Anand Mahindra serves as the Chairman and Managing Director of the Mahindra Group, a leading conglomerate in India operating across diverse sectors. Known for his tireless work ethic and commitment to technological advancements in business, Mahindra oversees various domains, including aerospace, agribusiness, automotive, construction equipment, defense, energy, finance, information technology, real estate, and more. With over 60 years of existence, the Mahindra Group stands as one of the country’s prominent companies, employing over 100,000 individuals.
Personal Life:
Anand Mahindra was born on May 1, 1955, in Mumbai, India, to Harish and Indira Mahindra. He completed his schooling at Lawrence School, Lovedale, and pursued Film-Making and Architecture at Harvard University. Later, he obtained an MBA from Harvard Business School in 1981. Anand Mahindra is married to Anuradha, a journalist and editor of magazines like Verve and Man’s World. The couple has two daughters, Divya and Aalika.
Career:
Anand Mahindra’s professional journey commenced at Mahindra Ugine Steel Company in 1981. He rapidly progressed through the ranks and assumed roles such as President and Deputy Managing Director of MUSCO in 1989. Expanding Mahindra Group into diverse sectors like hospitality management and real estate, he became the Deputy Managing Director of Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd. in April 1991.
Recognized for his understanding of customer needs, Mahindra took on the roles of Managing Director in 1997 and Vice Chairman in 2001. In August 2012, he assumed the position of Chairman and Managing Director, succeeding his uncle Keshub Mahindra. Under his leadership, Mahindra Group has evolved into one of the top 10 business conglomerates in India, boasting a fortune of USD 19 billion.
Beyond Mahindra Group:
Anand Mahindra extends his influence beyond Mahindra Group. He joined the advisory council of Singapore’s Economic Development Board in 2011 and became a member of the US–India Business Council (USIBC) Board in 2014. An enthusiast of sports, he, along with his brother-in-law Charu Sharma, launched the Pro Kabaddi League in India in 2014. Mahindra also played a role in conceptualizing the TV channel “Epic” in 2014.
Known for his contributions to co-curricular activities, Anand Mahindra actively participates in sports like tennis and sailing. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Mahindra Blues Festival in Mumbai in 2011. His insights into business are frequently shared through writings in various magazines.
Charities by Anand Mahindra:
Anand Mahindra actively supports the study of humanities and donated $10 million to the Humanities Center of Harvard University. In the realm of education, he founded the Nanhi Kali project, focusing on providing primary education to underprivileged girls in India. Additionally, he serves on the board of directors for the Naandi Foundation, contributing to the socio-economic development of India.
Awards Presented to Anand Mahindra:
Anand Mahindra’s leadership at Mahindra Group earned him several prestigious awards, including the Rajiv Gandhi Award, ‘Knight of the Order of Merit’ by the President of France, Leadership Award by American India Foundation, Global Leadership Award by US Indian Business Council, and Forbes India Leadership Awards for Entrepreneur of the Year and Business Today CEO of the Year.
About Mahindra Group:
Founded on October 2, 1945, in Ludhiana, Mahindra Group has evolved into a renowned conglomerate with a significant presence in various business sectors. Originally named Muhammad and Mahindra Group, it emerged from the collaboration of the Mahindra brothers and Malik Ghulam Muhammad. Commencing with steel manufacturing, the group now boasts a fortune exceeding 11 billion US dollars, emphasizing its commitment to delivering top-notch products and services while contributing to societal well-being.