Bajaj Group Marks 100 Years; PM Modi Lauds its Legacy

The Bajaj Group has officially entered its centenary year, celebrating 100 years of a journey that remains deeply intertwined with India’s struggle for independence and its subsequent industrial evolution. Tracing its origins back to 1926, the group was founded by Jamnalal Bajaj, who established the first office in Mumbai.

The historical records highlight a legacy defined by Gandhian values. Jamnalal Bajaj was a close confidant of Mahatma Gandhi and played a pivotal role in the Non-Cooperation and Salt Satyagraha movements.

A landmark moment in the group’s history occurred in 1928, when the family opened the Laxmi Nayan Mandir to Dalits, making it the first temple in India to do so. This act of social reform preceded the formal launch of the Quit India Movement, the first draft of which was passed at Bajajwadi in Wardha, a location that served as a "National Guest House" for leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Patel.

Also read: Bajaj Auto Net Profit Rises 34% In Q4, Announces Bumper Dividend Of ₹150 Per Share 

Throughout the mid-20th century, the group diversified into housing, steel, and electricals. In 1945, Bachhraj Trading was founded, later becoming Bajaj Auto in 1960. The transition to a global powerhouse accelerated in 1965 when Rahul Bajaj took charge. Under his leadership, the iconic Chetak scooter became a household name, symbolising the aspirations of the Indian middle class.

In recent decades, the group has pivoted towards financial services and cutting-edge manufacturing. The formation of Bajaj Finserv in 2007 marked a strategic demerger to focus on the growing insurance and lending sectors. Today, as the group celebrates a century of operations, it continues to balance commercial success with social responsibility through various charitable trusts and foundations.

PM Modi sent a celebratory message to the Bajaj family, noting that reaching the hundred-year milestone is a remarkable feat for any organisation. He emphasised that this achievement is a testament to the group's durability and its impressive capacity to evolve alongside the country.