Long-serving chairman and patriarch of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Osamu Suzuki, died, the company said on Friday. The death was mourned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and colleagues of Suzuki in a message on the social media platform X.
In his tribute, the Prime Minister termed Suzuki as a legend of the world automotive industry, recalling how his vision transformed the concept of mobility across the world. “Under his mentorship, Suzuki Motor Corporation emerged as a global powerhouse, adeptly negotiating challenges while driving innovation and expansion. His deep love for India and partnership with Maruti revolutionized the Indian automobile market,” Modi said.
The Prime Minister also recalled his interactions with Suzuki with affection and said, “I have many fond memories of my multiple meetings with Mr. Suzuki and admire his pragmatic and humble approach. He strove to set examples himself and showed relentless attention to detail, with a commitment to quality. My deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and innumerable admirers,” he said.
Osamu Suzuki was hailed as a visionary business leader who made immense differences in the global automobile firmament, particularly in India. This is how Maruti Suzuki hailed him in its statement.
Having led Suzuki Motor Corporation for over 40 years, Osamu Suzuki was instrumental in revolutionizing India’s car market with the launch of the iconic Maruti 800. During Modi’s visit to Japan last year, the two leaders discussed further investment opportunities in India, including the establishment of production facilities for electric vehicles, batteries, and recycling centers as part of a sustainable growth initiative.
Their discussions also centered on building local innovation in India, mainly through the skill development projects such as the Japan-India Institutes of Manufacturing JIM and Japanese Endowed Courses JEC. In reflecting on the contributions by Suzuki to India, Modi remembered the transformation effected by Suzuki Motors in India’s automobile sector.
Osamu Suzuki had supported Modi’s reforms, saying, “The reforms undertaken are changing India into a ‘Model Landscape,’ and the theme of self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar) is strongly backed by Japanese investors.”
