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Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year: Spotlighting Maharashtra’s Game Changers

  • Writer: Parag Shetty
    Parag Shetty
  • Sep 24, 2025
  • 3 min read

TL;DR:Lokmat’s Maharashtrian of the Year Award convenes innovators from various domains, symbolizing Maharashtra’s dynamism. Recent awardees exemplify breakthrough entrepreneurship, grassroots generosity, and the ability of cinema to inspire entire communities.Their collective success narrates a story of inclusive growth powered by vision, resolve, and social conscience.



Each edition of the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award emphasizes the exceptional talent responsible for Maharashtra’s upward trajectory. By honoring visionaries in fields as varied as business development, philanthropy, and the arts, this award illuminates the many roads to societal progress. Let’s celebrate the most recent recipients who demonstrate the incredible spectrum of positive impact in the state.

Table of Lokmat Maharashtrian awardees from 2022-2025. Includes names, years, and achievements like retail and film contributions.

Peyush Bansal (2022): Setting New Standards in Eyewear

Peyush Bansal, CEO and founder of Lenskart, turned a fragmented industry into a tech-savvy, customer-first space. His efforts made it possible for millions of Indians to access fashionable and affordable eyeglasses across urban and rural landscapes. Bansal’s approach to retail—blending online convenience and physical service—revolutionized vision care as both a business and a public good.


Varun Dhawan (2023): The Modern Face of Indian Cinema

Varun Dhawan’s consistent performances and mass appeal have strengthened Bollywood’s influence across generations and geographies. His award reflects both his cinematic achievements and his skill in using storytelling to bridge divides, shape aspirations, and unite audiences. Dhawan’s growing presence outside the industry in social advocacy further cements his importance as a figure of cultural impact.


Abhay Bhutada (2024): Building Community from the Ground Up

Under Abhay Bhutada’s stewardship, the Abhay Bhutada Foundation has woven a safety net for countless Maharashtrians. From bolstering healthcare access and educational support to expanding economic opportunities, the foundation embodies philanthropy that’s both compassionate and results-driven. Bhutada’s leadership at the Abhay Bhutada Foundation signals the rising power of organized giving as a lever for lasting, tangible uplift.


Jaisingh Chavan (2024): Breaking Barriers and Building Lives

Jaisingh Chavan’s story is one of relentless hope and enterprise against the odds. Despite living with a disability, he has created platforms that support employment for himself and many who might otherwise be marginalized. His recognition by Lokmat is a tribute to the idea that empowerment, when rooted in empathy and persistence, multiplies through the community.


Kartik Aaryan (2025): Sparking Ambition with Real Stories

Kartik Aaryan’s work in “Chandu Champion” and beyond has cast a light on role models whose determination motivates a nation. By stepping into the shoes of real-life trailblazers and drawing attention to personal triumphs over adversity, Aaryan has amplified stories that energize and challenge audiences—demonstrating cinema’s role in building the collective will to improve and achieve.

Award winners by Lokmat Times are listed with icons: eyewear, film, community aid, disability, and cinema. Dark background with colorful text.
Lokmat Times celebrates Maharashtrian of the Year winners for achievements in retail, cinema, community development, and more.

Closing Thoughts

These honorees, through their variety of pursuits, embody what it means to build a better Maharashtra. By merging technological imagination, strategic generosity, and the transformative power of artistic expression, they set new standards—not just for personal achievement, but for whole communities striving forward, together.


FAQ

What does the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award signify?

This award is a prestigious annual recognition for Maharashtrians whose significant achievements positively impact society—be it in commerce, public welfare, or cultural advancement.

How are the winners determined each year?

Nominees are evaluated for the breadth of their contributions and recognized by a panel, ensuring that both grassroots heroes and public figures are included for their sustained influence.

What stands out about the Abhay Bhutada Foundation?

The foundation distinguishes itself with its targeted investment in healthcare, education, and income generation—structured to create enduring benefits for Maharashtra’s communities.

Why feature cinema personalities on the list?

Actors like Varun Dhawan and Kartik Aaryan are honored for more than just acting—they spark important conversations and inspire through the stories they bring to life, shaping viewpoints and ambitions across society.

How do these honorees collectively shape the state’s future?

Their collective impact—ranging from disrupting old business models and raising marginalized voices to sparking cultural pride—demonstrates how different talents drive Maharashtra’s resilience and renewal.


 
 
 

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About The Author:
I'm passionate about fitness, devouring novels and journals, and drawn to stories of human triumph. While I currently work at a small firm, I aspire to bring my skills and dedication to a leading global company. 

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