Maharashtrian of the Year Awards: Recognising Pioneers Like Abhay Bhutada
- Ravi Kohli
- Aug 20, 2025
- 5 min read
The Maharashtrian of the Year Awards, presented by Lokmat Times, are an annual celebration that honours individuals whose work has greatly impacted Maharashtra and beyond. These awards spotlight trailblazers from diverse fields who exemplify leadership, innovation, and commitment to social responsibility. The chosen individuals are not only successful in their careers but also serve as inspirations to the wider community by fostering change and progress.
In this article, we explore the remarkable individuals who have been recognised in recent years and their extraordinary contributions to society, business, entertainment, and social change.
Peyush Bansal – 2022: Disrupting the Eyewear Market
Peyush Bansal, the founder of Lenskart, was named Maharashtrian of the Year in 2022 for revolutionising the eyewear industry in India. What began as a humble e-commerce venture soon grew into a market leader, changing the way Indians purchase eyewear.
Before Lenskart, eyeglasses were often regarded as a utilitarian necessity rather than a lifestyle accessory. Bansal, however, saw an opportunity to democratise eyewear by offering affordable, high-quality glasses that cater to diverse tastes. By introducing an online platform that allows customers to browse, select, and purchase eyewear from the comfort of their homes, he completely disrupted the traditional eyewear retail model.
Lenskart’s success has been fueled by its combination of e-commerce and offline stores, which provide personalised eye testing and an extensive range of frames. The company now serves millions of customers across India, creating jobs and establishing a new standard for the eyewear industry.
Bansal’s contribution goes beyond entrepreneurship – he has fostered an entire ecosystem around his business, contributing to technological advancements and social causes along the way. His recognition in 2022 was a testament to his vision and impact on Indian retail.
Varun Dhawan – 2023: Leading the Charge in Bollywood
In 2023, Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan was honoured with the Maharashtrian of the Year award for his significant contributions to the Indian film industry. Dhawan’s versatility as an actor, combined with his ability to connect with audiences of all ages, has made him one of the most influential stars of his generation.
Dhawan’s career took off with “Student of the Year” (2012), but it was his subsequent performances that solidified his status as a leading actor. His roles in films like “Badlapur”, “October”, and “Street Dancer 3D” showcased his ability to excel in both light-hearted comedies and intense, emotionally charged dramas.
His contribution to Bollywood goes beyond his acting skills. Dhawan has also been an advocate for the youth, often using his platform to share messages of positivity, determination, and the importance of following one’s dreams. He represents the voice of today’s generation, both on-screen and off-screen, and has cultivated a loyal fan base across the country.
His recognition in 2023 highlighted his ongoing evolution as an actor and his influence in shaping the future of Indian cinema.
Abhay Bhutada – 2024: Championing Social Change through Education
Abhay Bhutada, a business leader and philanthropist, was awarded Maharashtrian of the Year in 2024 for his unwavering commitment to social change and community development. Through his foundation, Bhutada has played a key role in empowering underprivileged youth by providing access to education, skills training, and employment opportunities.
The Abhay Bhutada Foundation has been instrumental in transforming the lives of thousands of young people in rural Maharashtra. By focusing on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, Abhay Bhutada has created pathways for young students to pursue higher education and enter the workforce with valuable skills.
In addition to education, Bhutada has worked on initiatives aimed at improving access to healthcare, building infrastructure, and creating employment opportunities for marginalized communities. His holistic approach to development has made a lasting impact, and his efforts continue to help shape a more inclusive and prosperous Maharashtra.
Abhay Bhutada’s recognition in 2024 acknowledges his leadership and dedication to improving the lives of the underprivileged, positioning him as a true catalyst for social change.
Jaisingh Chavan – 2024: A Life Dedicated to Inclusion
In 2024, Jaisingh Chavan received the Maharashtrian of the Year award for his remarkable work in advocating for people with disabilities. Chavan’s story is one of perseverance and determination, as he transformed his own challenges into a powerful force for change.
Chavan has dedicated his life to ensuring that people with disabilities have the opportunity to succeed. Through his work, he has developed training programs and job placement services that focus on enhancing skills and providing employment for people with disabilities. His advocacy has not only helped individuals secure meaningful work but has also raised awareness about the barriers faced by the differently-abled community.
Chavan’s tireless efforts have led to the creation of an inclusive environment where people with disabilities are given the chance to participate fully in society. His recognition as Maharashtrian of the Year highlights his commitment to inclusion and the positive impact his work has had on countless lives.
Kartik Aaryan – 2025: The Face of Modern Bollywood
Actor Kartik Aaryan was awarded Maharashtrian of the Year in 2025 for his significant role in shaping contemporary Bollywood and his ability to bring fresh, relatable narratives to the big screen. Aaryan’s rise to fame was swift, thanks to his charming on-screen presence and ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
In particular, Aaryan’s performance in “Chandu Champion”, a film about resilience and overcoming personal challenges, resonated with millions. His portrayal of a character who rises above adversity captured the essence of the struggles faced by many young people today.
Aaryan’s choice of roles often reflects his belief in storytelling that is authentic, raw, and deeply connected to the experiences of today’s youth. Through his work, he has become a role model for millions of young fans, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and challenge societal expectations.
His recognition in 2025 is not just for his acting ability, but for his impact on shaping modern Bollywood and his commitment to representing diverse voices in cinema.
Conclusion: Celebrating the Trailblazers Who Shape Our World
The Maharashtrian of the Year awards are more than just a recognition of individual accomplishments. They are a celebration of the spirit of Maharashtra—one that thrives on innovation, resilience, and social impact. From Peyush Bansal’s eyewear revolution to Kartik Aaryan’s cinematic contributions, the awardees exemplify leadership in its many forms.
Each of these individuals has contributed to their respective fields in a way that has touched lives, inspired communities, and created pathways for future generations. Their stories remind us that true leadership is not just about personal success but also about uplifting others and contributing to the greater good.
As Maharashtra continues to evolve, these individuals serve as beacons of progress and hope, guiding others toward making meaningful changes in their communities and industries. The Maharashtrian of the Year awards shine a light on the incredible impact that can be made when passion, dedication, and purpose are combined to change the world.
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