The Bajaj Group marked 100 years since its founding at a centenary event held in Mumbai on May 11, 2026, bringing together business leaders, government representatives and members of the Bajaj family.
Founded by Jamnalal Bajaj in 1926 during the pre-independence era, the group today operates across automobiles, financial services, electricals and engineering. According to the company, the conglomerate has more than 100 companies, exports to more than 100 countries, and employs more than 130,000 people.
In a message issued for the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the group had remained part of India’s industrial and economic landscape through multiple phases of national development. “A hundred years is a significant journey for any institution. It reflects not only longevity, but also the ability to adapt to changing times, contribute to economic growth and remain relevant across generations,” Modi said in his message to the Bajaj family.
He added that the group had “played an important role in nation-building by creating jobs, fostering innovation and supporting community development.”
The event at the National Sports Club of India in Mumbai included speeches by senior members of the Bajaj family, a performance by composer Ricky Kej, the screening of a film on Jamnalal Bajaj and Mahatma Gandhi directed by Rajkumar Hirani, and the unveiling of a centenary logo.
Speaking at the event, Niraj Bajaj, Chairman of Bajaj Auto, said the company’s trajectory had evolved alongside India’s industrial development. “The story of Bajaj and the story of India have never really been separate,” he said, adding that the group’s long-standing focus had been to “Build in India. Build for India. And build India.”
Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director of Bajaj Auto, referred to the company’s international presence and its partnership with KTM. “Today, Bajaj Auto is not just one of India’s largest two-wheeler companies. It is among the top three globally,” he said.
Sanjiv Bajaj, Chairman and Managing Director of Bajaj Finserv, said technology and artificial intelligence would influence the next phase of growth in financial services and inclusion. “At Bajaj, we don’t see AI only as a technology trend. We see it as a powerful force that will further financial inclusion,” he said.
The group also said its social initiatives in areas such as education, healthcare, livelihoods and youth skilling have reached more than 10 million beneficiaries so far.