Early Life and Education
Anand Gopal Mahindra was born on May 1, 1955, in Bombay, India. He completed his early schooling at the Lawrence School, Lovedale. He then pursued filmmaking and architecture at Harvard University, graduating magna cum laude in 1977. He furthered his education with an MBA from Harvard Business School in 1981.
Rise to Success
Anand Mahindra joined Mahindra Ugine Steel Company Ltd (MUSCO) in 1981 as an Executive Assistant to the Finance Director. He rose through the ranks, becoming the President and Deputy Managing Director of MUSCO in 1989. In 1991, he became the Deputy Managing Director of Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. He was appointed Managing Director in 1997 and Vice Chairman in 2001. In August 2012, he took over as Chairman of the Mahindra Group from his uncle, Keshub Mahindra. Under his leadership, the Mahindra Group has expanded into various sectors, becoming a global conglomerate.
Key Business Strategies
Anand Mahindra has been instrumental in diversifying the Mahindra Group and expanding its global footprint. He spearheaded the acquisition of SsangYong Motors in South Korea. He also led the launch of the Mahindra Scorpio, the first SUV indigenously designed and manufactured in India. Mahindra introduced the 'Rise' philosophy, which focuses on accepting no limits, alternative thinking, and driving positive change.
Philanthropy
Anand Mahindra is actively involved in philanthropy, supporting education for underprivileged girls through the Nanhi Kali initiative. He has also initiated the Mahindra Blues Festival and the Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards. He is the Chairman of the Board of Naandi Foundation, an NGO focused on educating girls, skilling youth, and providing sustainable livelihoods.