'Shaped Global Automobile Industry': Maruti Suzuki India Chairman Condoles Osamu Suzuki's Demise

Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. Chairman RC Bhargava condoled the demise of Osamu Suzuki, the former chairman of parent entity Suzuki Motor Corp.

"Maruti Suzuki is deeply saddened on the passing of Mr. Osamu Suzuki, Senior Advisor, Suzuki Motor Corporation and Director & Honorary Chairman, Maruti Suzuki India Limited. Mr. O. Suzuki was a visionary leader whose remarkable contributions shaped the global automobile industry," the Indian automobile company said.

Bhargava, in his statement, said the deceased automobile industry pioneer was "someone who was closer than a brother to me".

"He changed my life and showed how nationality is no barrier to people building unbreakable bonds of trust in each other. He was my teacher, mentor and a person who stood by me even in my darkest days," he said.

"If I played a role in the success of Maruti, it was because I was his student and he had taught me how best to grow a company and make it competitive," the Maruti Suzuki India chief added.

Bhargava said that the last time he had seen Osamu Suzuki was at his 90th birthday in July-end this year in Delhi. It was one of the "most touching event in my life" as Osama Suzuki attended it despite not keeping well, he added.

"Osamu San will no longer be there to guide us. His legacy and teachings will never be forgotten and he will be remembered every time Maruti reaches another milestone as a part of the progress of India," Bhargava added.

Osamu Suzuki died from lymphoma at the age of 94. He had served as president of Suzuki Motors for more than 28 years, making him the longest-serving head of a global automobile maker. His son assumed his position in June 2015.