Celebrating the Achievements of Abhay Bhutada and Other Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award Winners

Maharashtrian of the Year Award Winners By Lokmat Times

The Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award celebrates the achievements of individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. This prestigious recognition highlights leaders from various sectors, including business, cinema, and social activism. In 2024, Abhay Bhutada was honored for his philanthropic work through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, alongside other remarkable individuals who have changed the landscape of their industries.

Also Read: The Abhay Bhutada Foundation’s Vision for Inclusive Education in India 

1. Peyush Bansal – Innovating the Eyewear Industry

TL;DR: Peyush Bansal, awarded the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year in 2022, has transformed the eyewear industry in India. As the co-founder of a prominent eyewear company, Bansal broke barriers in the retail sector by adopting a direct-to-consumer business model, which made eyeglasses affordable for people across India. His company has helped make eyewear accessible to millions, especially in rural areas, where quality vision correction had previously been out of reach.

Bansal’s company has also focused on providing eye care to underserved populations, offering affordable eye exams and eyewear to those in need. By changing how eyewear is sold and making it more affordable, Bansal has played a key role in improving the eye health of many Indians, exemplifying how business innovations can also serve the common good.

2. Varun Dhawan – A Leading Star in Bollywood

Varun Dhawan, named the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year in 2023, is one of Bollywood’s most versatile and successful actors. Over the years, Dhawan has captivated audiences with his wide range of performances in films that span several genres, from comedies to dramatic roles. His ability to seamlessly transition between different kinds of characters has made him a favorite among moviegoers.

His consistency in delivering high-quality performances and his strong fan base have established him as one of the top actors in the industry. Dhawan’s influence extends beyond his acting career, as he continues to be a prominent figure in shaping the future of Bollywood.

3. Abhay Bhutada – Leading Social Change Through Education

Abhay Bhutada was awarded the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year in 2024 for his outstanding contributions to social development in Maharashtra. As the founder of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, Bhutada has dedicated himself to improving the lives of marginalized communities by focusing on education, healthcare, and empowerment. One of his most impactful initiatives has been introducing STEM kits in Pune schools, allowing students from underprivileged backgrounds to explore science and technology.

Beyond education, the Abhay Bhutada Foundation is also making strides in healthcare by bringing essential medical services to rural communities. By addressing the key issues of access to quality education and healthcare, Bhutada is making a lasting difference in the lives of many.

Quick Facts About Abhay Bhutada Foundation

4. Jaisingh Chavan – Empowering People with Disabilities

Jaisingh Chavan received the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award in 2024 for his dedicated efforts to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Born with physical challenges, Chavan has used his personal experiences to become a strong voice for the disabled community, working to ensure that they are given the same opportunities as anyone else to lead successful, independent lives.

Through his advocacy, Chavan has worked to change societal attitudes towards disability, helping people with disabilities find meaningful work and live independent lives. His initiatives have led to increased acceptance and inclusion of people with disabilities in the workforce, promoting a more diverse and equitable society.

5. Kartik Aaryan – Redefining Bollywood’s Star System

In 2025, Kartik Aaryan received the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award, marking his rise as one of the leading stars in Bollywood. Known for his strong on-screen presence and adaptability, Aaryan has become a household name with his varied film roles. His performances, spanning multiple genres, showcase his versatility and ability to connect with a wide audience.

Aaryan’s rise is not just attributed to his acting skills, but also to his ability to carve a niche for himself in a competitive industry. His journey from a relatively unknown actor to one of the most recognized faces in Bollywood reflects the changing dynamics of the film industry, where talent, resilience, and timing play a major role in achieving success.

Also Read: Abhay Bhutada Rises from Small-Town Beginnings to National Success

Conclusion

The Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award honors individuals who have achieved excellence in their respective fields and made a lasting impact on society. From Peyush Bansal’s innovations in the eyewear market to Abhay Bhutada’s tireless efforts to improve education and healthcare, these winners serve as inspirations for the next generation of leaders. Their contributions highlight the importance of using one’s influence for the greater good, creating a better future for all. In addition, you can click here to learn more about the Abhay Bhutada Foundation.

FAQs

1. What is the Abhay Bhutada Foundation and when was it founded?

The Abhay Bhutada Foundation was established by CA Abhay Bhutada in 2023 with the aim of improving education, healthcare, and sports in underserved communities. The foundation’s initiatives focus on providing practical learning opportunities, helping marginalized communities access the resources they need for a better life.

2. What does the LearnByDoing initiative aim to achieve?

The LearnByDoing initiative, created in collaboration with Sakar Eduskills, helps equip students in rural schools with Mini-STEM Labs. This program encourages hands-on learning through experiments and exposure to new technologies such as robotics and 3D printing, allowing students to understand complex subjects like science and mathematics.

3. Why is the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award significant?

The Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award is a highly respected recognition that honors individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to their industries and communities. It celebrates their accomplishments and highlights the positive changes they have made in their respective fields, be it in business, cinema, or social work.