Mahindra flags off second edition of ‘Drivers of Change’ initiative celebrating ‘Swarnim Bharat – Virasat aur Vikas’

In partnership with leading Automotive publication Auto Today, the initiative honours visionaries shaping India’s future and others who are preserving its rich heritage

 

Mumbai, February 6, 2025: Mahindra, in association with the India Today Group, has proudly flagged off the second edition of the Mahindra Rise ‘Drivers of Change’ initiative. This year, ‘Drivers of Change’ will celebrate change makers who are pushing the boundaries of progress as well as proponents of India’s richest traditions, reflecting the Republic Day theme of ‘Swarnim Bharat — Virasat aur Vikas’.

 

India stands as a unique intersection of history and innovation, seamlessly blending its glorious past with a dynamic future. Reflecting this spirit, ‘Drivers of Change’ will honour individuals who are not only shaping the nation’s progress but also preserving its cultural and historical legacy.

 

These changemakers have been carefully selected for their outstanding contributions across diverse fields – including social work, arts, technology, science, sports and medicine, spanning from grassroots activism and scientific breakthroughs to pioneering innovations and cultural excellence. Their achievements reflect Mahindra’s Rise philosophy – Rise for a more equal world, Rise to be future-ready and Rise to create value. 

 

Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO – Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., said, “At Mahindra, we are driven by Rise philosophy – to fuel progress that is deeply rooted in our heritage. ‘Drivers of Change’ is a reflection of this belief, celebrating those who are shaping India’s future while staying true to its traditions. Their journeys inspire us all, and we are proud to share their stories as we embark on this remarkable journey across the country.”

 

Yogendra Pratap, Editor, Auto Today, said, “Auto Today and Mahindra Automotive, in our continued commitment to driving meaningful change, are proud to embark on the second edition of ‘Drivers of Change.’ Every journey leaves an impact, and this year, through our extensive 10,000km plus expedition in the Mahindra XUV700, we aim to spotlight individuals who are reshaping India’s future and, in some cases, taking care of our heritage as well. This journey is more than just a drive—it’s a mission to celebrate change makers who are transforming communities while preserving the cultural and historical fabric that makes India truly unique.” 

The Auto Today Team from the India Today Group is set to travel over 10,000km across India in a convoy of Mahindra XUV 700 SUVs. They will visit handpicked achievers—from conservationists to social reformers—spending time at their workplaces to share their stories in their own words. The journey will take them along Southern India’s coastal roads, through the lush Northeastern States, past the historic town of Dandi, and finally to Mumbai, Maharashtra.

 

About the “Drivers of Change” Initiative:

• A pan-India drive covering over 10,000km to celebrate those ushering in change across the country and upholding India’s richest traditions.
• The initiative is dedicated to telling the stories of these remarkable individuals who are shaping the new India and, in some cases, upholding our cultural heritage
• Led by the Auto Today Team, the journey will be undertaken in Mahindra XUV700 – an SUV built for resilience, adventure and the spirit of change.