A Patriot at Heart: Remembering Shri H. K. Firodia on Republic Day
Republic Day is a time to reflect on the courage, values, and vision that shaped India. It also reminds us of individuals who carried this spirit forward through their lives. Late Shri H. K. Firodia was one such individual. A visionary industrialist and a proud alumnus of the College of Engineering Pune (Mechanical Engineering, Batch of 1946), he played a key role in India’s automotive journey. At the same time, he remained deeply connected to his love for the nation.
A Personal Moment of Patriotism
As India stood on the threshold of independence, Shri Firodia made a deeply personal decision. He chose to postpone his departure to the United States. This allowed him to witness India become a free nation. The decision reflected more than a change in plans. It showed his emotional bond with his homeland and his strong belief in India’s future.
A Family Rooted in the Freedom Movement
The spirit of patriotism extended throughout the Firodia family. During the freedom movement, Smt. Pankuwar Firodia actively participated in the Nai Talim movement. The movement was inspired by Mahatma Gandhi and Vinoba Bhave. It focused on self-reliance and social change through education. Her contribution was later recognized with the Freedom Struggle Medal. This honor acknowledged her role in strengthening the foundations of independent India.
Pioneer of the Indian Three-Wheeler Industry
Shri H. K. Firodia carried these values into his professional life. He became widely known as the pioneer of the Indian three-wheeler industry. Through Kinetic Engineering and his association with Force Motors, he introduced mobility solutions that transformed transportation. These innovations supported livelihoods and connected communities across the country. He strongly believed in indigenous innovation. For him, true independence meant building technological capabilities within India.
A Legacy of Nation Building
Often referred to as the “Doyen of the Indian Automobile Industry,” Shri Firodia believed that:
“The growth of an industry is measured by the progress of the society it serves.”
This Republic Day, we remember Shri H. K. Firodia not only as an industry leader. We remember him as a nation builder. His life reflected the spirit of India—resilient, forward-looking, and deeply committed to inclusive progress.
