From Muhammed & Mahindra to Mahindra & Mahindra; how India’s partition sowed seeds for M&M’s division

Shivani Kava, Feb 14, 2021, 3:04 PM IST

Mahindra & Mahindra has come a long way since the partition, from introducing us to the world of jeeps through CJ jeeps to making the safest car of India, XUV300.

The company follows only one motto “To Rise.” How did this company, that started its operation even before Independence rose to this glory? Let’s find out!

Initially, the brand was called Muhammad and Mahindra as it was formed by J.C.Mahindra, K.C.Mahindra and Malik Ghulam Muhammad in Ludhiana, Punjab. The main objective of this company was trading in steel.

While the whole country was celebrating Independence on August 15, 1947 people in Punjab were struck with the blow of partition. As India was divided into India and Pakistan, Malik Ghulam Muhammad decided to leave for Pakistan.

Following the withdrawal of Muhammad, Mahindras changed the name to Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) in 1948. Originally, the company used to trade steel with companies from the UK. Later it obtained the license for manufacturing Willys Jeep in India.

In 1949 M&M built the first Willys Overland Jeep in India at its Assembly Plant in Mazagon, Bombay.

Mahindra and Mahindra’s shares were listed on the Bombay stock exchange on 15th June 1955.

Back in 1961, M&M collaborated with the USA-based International Harvester manufacturer to manufacture tractors, which today makes Mahindra the largest selling tractor maker in India.

By 2000s, the company changed its logo, displaying the company’s vision and mission.

In 2000, the Bolero, one of the country’s largest-selling SUVs was introduced.

Adding to the SUV segment, Scorpio was introduced in 2002 and later the XUV500 was born.

Mahindra and Mahindra is currently run by the Indian multinational conglomerate holding company. It is a federation of companies, bound by one purpose – to Rise. Inspired by this spirit, their legacy, and values, a goal to always positively impact the partners, stakeholders, communities, and the world at large.

Aftermarket
Agriculture Industry
Automotive
Clean Energy
Defense
Information Technology
Farm Equipment
Hospitality
Logistics
Insurance broking
Rural Housing Finance
Retail
Real Estate and Infrastructure
Trucks and Buses
Vehicle & Equipment finance

Anand Mahindra
Anand Mahindra joined the company back in 1981, as an Executive Assistant to Finance Director and it is his hard work and unique leadership that is why the company stands in the global market today. He is currently the Chairman of Mahindra Group. Mahindra saw a major boost in 2002 with the launch of Scorpio, an SUV, and with his sheer belief, Anand Mahindra played his cards right. He also launched UV Bolero, the highly appreciated automobile. M &M Automotive Sector makes a wide range of vehicles including MUVs, LCVs, and three-wheelers. M&M is currently the largest manufacturer of MUVs. It offers over 20 models. Mahindra at the Auto Expo 2020 showcased a whole new series of engines named mStallion, powering the future vehicles of the brand. Being the first to introduce CRDi engines in India through its mHwak series, Mahindra has been treading on the road of innovation and success.

Sustainability efforts
Mahindra Group has announced to become a carbon-neutral company by 2040. Its major focus being energy efficiency and the use of renewable power. It is important to note that M&M was the first company in the world to commit to doubling energy productivity by signing on to The Climate Group’s program EP100. Mahindra Racing announced that it is the first Formula E team, and the first FIA World Championship entrant, to be certified Net Zero Carbon footprint since inception. The certification has been approved by the ALLCOT Group for carbon emission offsetting for the entirety of the team’s existence.