Chairman of Malabar Group M. P. Ahammad Conferred Business Bhushan at Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Awards 2026

Mumbai, March 11, 2026: Mr. M. P. Ahammad, Chairman of Malabar Group, has been honoured with the prestigious Business Bhushan Award at the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Awards 2026, recognising his visionary leadership and contribution to transforming the global jewellery retail industry.

(R to L) Rajendra Darda - Editor in Chief - Lokmat Media Group; Dr Vijay Darda - Chairman - Lokmat Media Group; Asher O - MD-India, Malabar Gold & Diamonds; Devendra Fadnavis - CM, Maharashtra State; M.P. Ahammad - Chairman, Malabar Group; Eknath Shinde - Deputy CM, Maharashtra State

The awards ceremony, held at the iconic Gateway of India in Mumbai, was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, along with Vijay Darda, Chairman of Lokmat Media Group, and several policymakers, industry leaders, and prominent personalities.

Presented annually by Lokmat Media Group, the awards honour individuals whose leadership and achievements have significantly influenced their industries while contributing meaningfully to society. Mr. Ahammad’s recognition reflects his remarkable entrepreneurial journey in building Malabar Gold & Diamonds into the fifth-largest jewellery retailer globally and the largest jewellery retailer of Indian origin.

Expressing gratitude for the honour, Mr. Ahammad said the award reflects the collective dedication of the Malabar team and the trust placed in the brand by customers. He noted that the group’s growth has always been guided by responsibility, integrity, and a commitment to creating lasting value for society.

Founded in 1993, Malabar Gold & Diamonds has grown into a global jewellery retail brand with 425 showrooms across 14 countries, integrating design, manufacturing, and retail while promoting responsible and transparent business practices.

Maharashtra continues to be a key market for the company, with 34 showrooms across major cities, supporting employment generation and strengthening the organised jewellery ecosystem. The group aims to further expand its presence in the state, targeting 64 stores by 2029.

Beyond business, Mr. Ahammad has championed a purpose-driven model by embedding CSR and ESG commitments into the organisation, dedicating 5% of profits to social initiatives in education, healthcare, housing support, and women’s empowerment across regions of operation. The Business Bhushan recognition further reinforces his standing as one of India’s most respected business leaders driving growth with a strong sense of social responsibility.

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