Ex-Maruti Suzuki CEO Osamu Suzuki Posthumously Conferred With Padma Vibhushan

Osamu Suzuki, former Chairman of Suzuki Motor Corporation, was posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan on 28 April by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan. The honour recognises his decades-long role in shaping India’s auto sector through Maruti Suzuki. He was instrumental in the Suzuki–Government of India joint venture that led to Maruti Suzuki’s creation. Under his leadership, the Maruti 800 made car ownership accessible to millions, driving India’s rise as a major global auto market.

Toshihiro Suzuki, Representative Director and President of Suzuki Motor Corporation, said: 'My sincere gratitude to the Honourable President of India and the Government of India for awarding the prestigious Padma Vibhushan to my father, Mr. Osamu Suzuki, former Chairman, Suzuki Motor Corporation. I have just received this high-level award on his behalf, and I am deeply honoured. I believe he is, from heaven, looking back fondly on the 45 years he spent with India, his second home.'

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'This award goes not only to my father, but also to all the people who have worked at Suzuki, Maruti Suzuki and all our business partners, who have supported us in this journey. My father must be feeling very proud today. I am also feeling extremely proud to receive this award. All the employees at Suzuki and Maruti Suzuki and our business partners must be feeling proud of this recognition. This award also expresses thanks to the `love of Indian people towards Suzuki’. This award belongs to all of you,' he added.

President Droupadi Murmu confers Padma Vibhushan in the field of Trade & Industry on Shri Osamu Suzuki (Posthumous). He dedicated himself to the development of the automotive industry, demonstrating exceptional leadership and initiative. Through his collaboration with… pic.twitter.com/dRG5nrpaoe

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) April 28, 2025

Osamu Suzuki joined Suzuki Motor Corporation in 1958, rising to president in 1978 and chairman in 2000. He focused on developing small, affordable cars for emerging markets, significantly boosting Suzuki’s global growth and Maruti Suzuki’s dominance in India.

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Osamu Suzuki passed away on December 25, 2024, at 94. His son, Toshihiro Suzuki, accepted the Padma Vibhushan on his behalf. The honour reflects Suzuki’s impact on India’s industrial growth, as he reshaped the automotive sector by promoting affordability and reliability.

The Padma Vibhushan highlights his enduring legacy and lasting influence on Indian mobility and manufacturing.