'Humara Rahul Bajaj': The Humble Gentleman Behind The Business Leader

Last weekend, Mr Rahul Bajaj, a doyen of the Indian two-wheeler industry, passed away. While I wasn't lucky enough to have a conversation with the legendary personality, here's a small anecdote from when I saw him in person in 2019. This also turned out to be his last interaction with the mainstream automotive media.

The event was a special one for Bajaj Auto as the new range of Chetak EVs were returning to the Akurdi plant after a 3,000km yatra, where the first Chetak was manufactured. There was, of course, a great deal of excitement among older Bajaj employees, who had a connection with the OG Chetak. But none were as excited as Mr Bajaj himself, who was beaming with elation. However, there was a problem. The Chetaks hadn't reached the plant on time, but despite the delay and his age, the octogenarian didn't once sit on the lavish sofa reserved for him at the stage. His eyes were fixated on the gates, searching for a glimpse of the EV.

• KTM E-Duke: What We’d Like To See
• Triumph-Bajaj Bike Sighted For The First Time
• Upcoming Electric Scooters

Finally, after a few moments, the Chetak riders entered with much fanfare. Mr Bajaj got down from the stage, greeted each with folded hands (this was pre-Covid), and had an elaborate discussion. He didn't care if the management executives had been waiting, or the employees and the media, for that matter. What was essential for him was the feedback and the riders' experience on the new Chetak.

Two things struck me as I quietly witnessed it from the sidelines:

• Having nurtured the Bajaj Chetak, really, from the start, he had an emotional attachment with the brand and was delighted to see his baby make a comeback as an EV.
• That he was a thorough gentleman first before being an astute businessman was evident in the way he connected with the riders (young enough to be his grandsons), which really showed the passion and empathy he has for his workforce.

By just observing Mr Bajaj for around an hour, I learnt so many life lessons. No wonder he was a towering figure among Indian businessmen and was lauded for his no-nonsense approach (a trait clearly visible in his son, Rajiv Bajaj). As he bids adieu to us, his legacy will always carry on and he will be fondly remembered as the person who made two-wheelers accessible to the Indian masses. And it’s quite apt that Bajaj Auto is taking the next big leap in its two-wheeler journey, with the ever faithful Bajaj Chetak EV. Can the Chetak script yet another success story for Bajaj is something only time will tell, but one thing is for sure, Mr Bajaj will be always rooting for his baby.