Abhay Bhutada and the Inspiring Winners of the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award

The Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award is a celebration of exceptional individuals who have made substantial contributions across various sectors. Recognizing those who have dedicated themselves to their craft while positively impacting society, the award acknowledges achievements in fields such as business, entertainment, and social advocacy. This article highlights the winners of the prestigious award, including Abhay Bhutada, whose work in community development has been truly transformative.

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

1. Peyush Bansal – A Trailblazer in the Eyewear Industry

TL;DR: In 2022, Peyush Bansal was awarded the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award for his groundbreaking work in the eyewear industry. As the co-founder of an eyewear company, he revolutionized the way eyewear is sold in India. Through a direct-to-consumer model, Bansal made eyeglasses more affordable, cutting down the traditional retail markup and bringing high-quality eyewear within reach for millions.

Bansal’s innovations also extended to offering eye care services across rural and urban areas, which had a significant impact on underserved communities. His company’s work has bridged the gap in access to affordable vision care, giving millions of people the opportunity to improve their vision and quality of life.

2. Varun Dhawan – Reinventing the Bollywood Experience

Awarded in 2023, Varun Dhawan is a highly celebrated actor in the Indian film industry. His career has seen him take on a variety of roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor. From family-friendly comedies to intense dramas, Dhawan’s diverse performances have earned him a place among Bollywood’s most popular stars.

His ability to adapt to different genres and connect with audiences has made him a favorite both in India and internationally. With each project, Dhawan continues to expand his range as an actor, and his contribution to the Indian film industry is undeniable.

3. Abhay Bhutada – Leading Community Development in Maharashtra

In 2024, Abhay Bhutada was recognized for his exemplary work in community development, particularly in Maharashtra. As the founder of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, he has dedicated his efforts to transforming the lives of underserved communities. His foundation’s initiatives focus on improving education, healthcare, and access to resources for people in rural areas.

Abhay Bhutada’s efforts go beyond education. His foundation has been instrumental in implementing various projects aimed at improving healthcare in rural regions, offering support where it’s needed most. His dedication to uplifting underprivileged communities reflects his broader commitment to social change.

4. Jaisingh Chavan – Advocating for the Rights of the Disabled

Jaisingh Chavan’s work was celebrated in 2024 for his advocacy and support for people with disabilities. Overcoming his own physical challenges, Chavan has worked tirelessly to ensure that individuals with disabilities are given the same opportunities as others to succeed. His efforts have focused on creating job opportunities and training programs for differently-abled individuals, helping them integrate into the workforce.

His advocacy has had a profound impact on changing societal attitudes towards disability. Through his initiatives, Chavan has helped open doors for the disabled community in both education and employment, showing that disability should never be seen as an obstacle to success.

5. Kartik Aaryan – A Rising Star in Bollywood

Kartik Aaryan was awarded the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award in 2025 for his contribution to Indian cinema. Aaryan’s career has been marked by a series of successful films, and his versatility as an actor has earned him a loyal following. Known for his charm and acting skills, Aaryan has become one of the most bankable stars in Bollywood.

His role in films like Chandu Champion has solidified his place as a rising star in the industry. Beyond his on-screen roles, Aaryan’s growing influence in shaping Bollywood’s modern cinematic trends demonstrates his commitment to evolving as an artist.

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

Conclusion

The Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award is a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and extraordinary achievements of individuals who have made a lasting impact on their fields. From Peyush Bansal’s innovations in eyewear to Abhay Bhutada’s transformative work in community development, the winners of this prestigious award represent the spirit of progress and social good. Their contributions are inspiring a new generation to pursue excellence and give back to their communities. Besides, you can click here to know more about the Abhay Bhutada Foundation.

FAQs

1. What is the purpose of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, and when was it established?

The Abhay Bhutada Foundation was founded in 2023 by CA Abhay Bhutada. Its mission is to support and uplift underserved communities by focusing on key areas such as education, healthcare, and sports, with an emphasis on hands-on, practical learning experiences.

2. What are the goals of the LearnByDoing initiative?

The LearnByDoing initiative, launched in collaboration with Sakar Eduskills, is designed to provide rural schools with Mini-STEM Labs. This program allows students to engage in interactive learning by conducting experiments and exploring emerging technologies like robotics and 3D printing, helping them grasp complex concepts in science and mathematics.

3. Why is the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award considered prestigious?

The Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Award recognizes outstanding individuals who have made remarkable contributions in their respective fields. Whether in business, film, or social services, the award celebrates not only their personal success but also the significant, positive impact they have had on their communities and the state of Maharashtra.