Bajaj at 100: A nationalist legacy pivots to global scale and technological ambition

May 18, 2026 - 04:27

MUMBAI: A century ago, Jamnalal Bajaj, driven by nationalist passion, founded Seth Bacchraj and Co in 1926. At the same time, he was financing and organizing support for Mahatma Gandhi's freedom movement. This week, his descendants gathered in Mumbai to mark the Bajaj Group's 100-year journey. They also laid out the company's future plans in a fast-changing global economy.

The event highlighted how a business born from India's struggle for independence has transformed into a global powerhouse. Today, the group spans automobiles, finance, and consumer goods. Leaders spoke about leveraging technology and expanding international reach. They emphasized staying true to the founding principles of trust and self-reliance while pushing into new markets.

The centenary comes at a time when Indian conglomerates are competing on the world stage. Bajaj's pivot from a nationalist legacy to technological ambition reflects a broader shift in the country's industrial landscape. The group aims to continue its growth by focusing on innovation and sustainability, ensuring the next 100 years are as impactful as the first.