Ravi Pandit, co-founder and chairman of KPIT Technologies Ltd, passed away on May 8 in Pune, the company confirmed through an official stock exchange filing. Pandit was widely regarded as one of the key figures in India’s automotive software and engineering services industry, having played a central role in transforming KPIT into a globally recognised technology company over the last three decades.
In its statement, KPIT said it was “deeply saddened” by the passing of its founder and chairman. Ravi Pandit co-founded the company in 1990 along with Kishor Patil when it operated under the name KPIT Cummins. Over the years, the company evolved from a domestic IT services venture into a major player in automotive and mobility software engineering with operations spanning multiple countries.
An alumnus of the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States, Pandit was known for driving innovation-focused growth within the Indian technology sector. Under his leadership, KPIT established a strong presence in automotive software, developing engineering solutions used in millions of vehicles across markets in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
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Beyond the corporate sector, Pandit was also actively involved in public policy, sustainability initiatives, and educational institutions. He helped establish organisations such as the Pune International Centre and Janwani, both of which focused on civic engagement and policy discussions. He also supported research initiatives related to sustainable development through institutions like the Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics.
Pandit additionally served in leadership and advisory roles across several organisations connected to social development and environmental policy. He was associated with the World Resources Institute India and the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme India and served on the board of Thermax Ltd. He also held the position of president at Jnana Prabodhini, an organisation involved in education and social development activities.
Following news of his passing, shares of KPIT Technologies declined in market trading. The company’s stock was trading lower during the session compared to the previous close, continuing a broader decline witnessed over the past year. Ravi Pandit’s death marks the end of a significant chapter in India’s technology and mobility sector, where he was recognised not only as an entrepreneur but also as a contributor to civic and sustainability-driven initiatives.
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