An Indian business tycoon Vikram Kirloskar, Vice Chairperson of the Toyota Kirloskar motor, died of a heart attack on 29 November, 2022. The 64-year-old is the fourth generation member of the Kirloskar family. He played an important role in the development of the country’s automotive industry and in expanding the business of Toyota in India.
Vikram Kirloskar (1958- 2022) (Credit – Financial Express)
Here are some of the interesting facts about Vikram Kirloskar –
Vikram Kirloskar comes from a lineage of business people who have contributed to the development of the country in different spheres. His grandfather, SL Kirloskar was particularly responsible for the setting up of the Kirloskar group.
The group was established in 1888. They manufactured India’s first iron plough, and since then it has played a crucial role in the industrial development of the country.
Early signs of an automobile genius.
Vikram and Geetanjali Kirloskar
While studying at the Lawrence School, Ooty, Kirloskar gained interest in building model planes and sculpting. Just like his grandfather, Kirloskar studied at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Years later, in one of the interviews, Kirloskar stated that his engineering background prepared him well for the business.
“Kirloskar’s business revolves around engineering and my engineering education at MIT helped me immensely,” said Kirloskar.
A glimpse into the personal life
.Vikram Kirloskar married the girl he dated in his youth. He met Geetanjali Kirloskar at the age of 24 when she was 18. In an interview with Hello Magazine, Geetanjali said that they had met at a party of a mutual friend. She found him “Sober and intelligent”, and was also left impressed by his charm. “We enjoy travelling, eating out, and drinking wine together,” said Vikram.
Manasi Kirloskar – Tata
Their daughter, Mansi, is an Executive Director with Kirloskar Systems. She is also a member of the board of Toyota Motors. Married to Noel Tata, the couple welcomed their first child named Jeh, recently.
Kirloskar and Toyota
Kirloskar played an important role in bringing Toyota’s business to India. Besides automobiles, Kirloskar Systems Ltd. (an investment company owned by Vikram Kirloskar) and Toyota have made their way through to the Textile machinery, aluminum die-casting industry, and manufacturing of auto components. Toyota entered the Indian market in the 1990s, and since then it has ventured into several different markets along with Kirloskar Systems Ltd.
Vikram Kirloskar played an important role in helping Toyota to venture in India
