NEW DELHI: Osamu Suzuki, the visionary who transformed India’s automobile industry, has passed away at the age of 94, as confirmed by Japan’s Suzuki Motor Corporation.
Suzuki, who died on December 25 from malignant lymphoma, is remembered for his bold decision to invest in India at a time when the country’s economy was still under a closed, license-based regime.
In 1981, Suzuki took a significant risk by partnering with the Indian government to form Maruti Udyog Ltd, a joint venture that sparked India’s automotive revolution.
The company later evolved into Maruti Suzuki India Ltd after the government’s exit in 2007, with Suzuki Motor Corporation assuming a majority stake.
Suzuki’s vision and leadership are credited with making affordable, reliable, and high-quality vehicles accessible to millions of Indian families.
R.C. Bhargava, Chairman of Maruti Suzuki India Ltd (MSIL), paid tribute to Suzuki, stating, “Without his foresight, willingness to take risks, and deep affection for India, the Indian automobile industry would not have achieved its current success. Millions of Indians owe a better quality of life to Osamu San.”
Bhargava also highlighted Suzuki’s contribution to Indo-Japanese relations, noting that Suzuki’s efforts were recognised with the prestigious Padma Bhushan award.
Under Suzuki’s leadership, Maruti Suzuki introduced globally recognized Japanese manufacturing practices in India, focusing on teamwork, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.
“Osamu San built lasting bonds with Indian leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His passing leaves a great void,” Bhargava added.
“He was not just my mentor but also my constant support during difficult times. His wisdom was instrumental in Maruti’s growth.”
The bond between Suzuki and India was deeply personal, and Bhargava recalled a moving moment when Suzuki, despite being in poor health, attended Bhargava’s 90th birthday in July 2024.
“It was one of the most memorable moments of my life. I didn’t know it would be the last time I would see him,” Bhargava said.
Born on January 30, 1930, Suzuki graduated from Chuo University’s Faculty of Law and joined Suzuki Motor Co Ltd in 1958.
Over the years, he rose through the ranks, becoming the company’s Chairman in 2000.
In 2021, he transitioned to the role of Senior Advisor, with his son, Toshihiro Suzuki, succeeding him as CEO.
Shradha Suri Marwah, President of the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), also expressed her condolences, calling Suzuki a “trailblazer, mentor, and innovator” who reshaped the Indian automotive landscape.
“His legacy, defined by excellence, humility, and sustainability, continues to inspire the global automotive community.”
Osamu Suzuki’s legacy remains an enduring symbol of the transformative power of visionary leadership, as he played a pivotal role in shaping India’s automotive industry and strengthening ties between India and Japan.
His contributions will continue to inspire generations to come in both business and the automotive sector.
