New Delhi [India]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and leaders from the Indian automobile industry paid heartfelt tributes to Osamu Suzuki, Senior Advisor at Suzuki Motor Corporation and Director and Honorary Chairman at Maruti Suzuki India, following his demise.
Deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Osamu Suzuki, a legendary figure in the global automotive industry. His visionary work reshaped global perceptions of mobility. Under his leadership, Suzuki Motor Corporation became a global powerhouse, successfully navigating challenges,… pic.twitter.com/MjXmYaEOYA
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 27, 2024
Expressing his condolences on X, PM Modi highlighted Suzuki’s transformative impact on the global automotive sector and his special connection with India.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Osamu Suzuki, a legendary figure in the global automotive industry. His visionary work reshaped global perceptions of mobility. Under his leadership, Suzuki Motor Corporation became a global powerhouse, successfully navigating challenges, and driving innovation and expansion. He had a profound affection for India, and his collaboration with Maruti revolutionised the Indian automobile market,” Modi wrote.
“I cherish fond memories of my numerous interactions with Mr. Suzuki and deeply admire his pragmatic and humble approach. He led by example, exemplifying hard work, meticulous attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and countless admirers,” Modi added.
Osamu Suzuki, a visionary leader, played an instrumental role in shaping the global automobile industry. His foresight led to the establishment of Maruti Udyog Limited in 1981, a partnership that revolutionized the Indian automotive market by providing affordable, reliable, and efficient vehicles to millions of families.
Suzuki’s leadership introduced Japanese manufacturing practices to India, emphasizing teamwork, productivity, and cost-effectiveness, which transformed the Indian automobile industry into a global powerhouse.
In a statement, Maruti Suzuki India celebrated his enduring legacy, stating, “His passion to bring smiles to people’s lives through mobility will forever be cherished. His vision will remain an inspiration to all of us at Maruti Suzuki and the entire automotive community in India.”
RC Bhargava, Chairman of Maruti Suzuki India, recalled Suzuki’s remarkable contributions and their final meeting earlier this year.
“Without his vision and foresight, his willingness to take a risk that no one else was willing to take, his deep and abiding love for India, and his immense capabilities as a teacher, I believe the Indian automobile industry could not have become the powerhouse that it has become,” Bhargava said.
Suzuki made a personal trip to Delhi in July, despite health challenges, to attend Bhargava’s 90th birthday.
“It was the most touching event in my life. Little did I know that this would be the last time I would see him,” Bhargava shared.
Osamu Suzuki’s unparalleled contributions to the Indian and global automotive industry will continue to inspire future generations.