Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra on Monday praised veteran banker Uday Kotak after he was conferred the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honours, on the occasion of Republic Day. Taking to X, Mahindra expressed his admiration for Kotak’s enduring impact on India’s financial sector, calling the recognition richly deserved.
Uday Kotak was among 13 eminent personalities selected for the Padma Bhushan for 2026, as part of the 131 Padma Awards announced on the eve of Republic Day. Mahindra said he was “couldn’t be happier” to see Kotak’s contributions formally acknowledged, highlighting his role in reshaping Indian banking and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship.
Describing Kotak as a pioneer beyond the banking industry, Mahindra credited him for breaking away from traditional business models and embracing risk at a time when India’s startup ecosystem was still in its infancy. He added that, as an early promoter of Kotak Mahindra Bank, he had personally witnessed the scale, professionalism, and long-term value created under Kotak’s leadership.
Also Read: Xi Jinping Hails China-India Friendship in Republic Day Message
Responding to the honour, Kotak said he was humbled by the recognition and reflected on India’s remarkable transformation over the decades. In his message, he expressed strong faith in the country’s future, urging citizens to move forward with aspiration while remaining grounded in reality and committed to purposeful action.
Uday S. Kotak is the founder of Kotak Mahindra Bank and stepped down as its Managing Director and CEO in 2023, continuing as a non-executive director. Under his leadership, the bank emerged as one of India’s most respected private lenders, known for prudent risk management and resilience during the bad-loan crisis of the previous decade.
Beyond banking, Kotak has played a significant role in corporate governance and financial reforms. He has chaired key regulatory panels, led crisis resolution efforts at IL&FS, and served on international advisory boards. Over the years, he has received several global and national honours, cementing his legacy as one of India’s most influential business leaders.
Also Read: CJI Surya Kant Hails Goa’s Anti-Drug Campaign as Example for India