The UDYAMI Awards 2026 brought together 350 entrepreneurs from across Maharashtra at BuntaraBhavan, Baner, Pune, in a large-scale celebration of grassroots enterprise and wealth creation. The initiative was led by import-export expert and entrepreneur mentor Dr Omkaar Hari Maali.
The ceremony recognised business owners who have built sustainable, revenue-generating ventures across sectors, underscoring the expanding economic footprint of regional entrepreneurs in India’s growth story. Awards were conferred across multiple categories including Hall of Fame, UdyamiLakhpati, UdyamiDashlakhpati, UdyamiCrorepati, Udyami Warrior and Udyami Game Changer. The honours were presented by Dr. Maali and Mrs. AakanksshaOmkaarMaali.
A key highlight of the evening was the Crorepati Felicitation Ceremony, celebrating entrepreneurs who have crossed significant revenue milestones, signalling the emergence of a new generation of Marathi wealth creators from towns and districts across the state. Addressing the gathering, Dr Maali emphasised the growing role of entrepreneurship in economic empowerment and employment generation. He noted that business success is no longer confined to metropolitan centres, with entrepreneurs from smaller regions building enterprises with turnovers ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹50 crore, many starting without prior experience.
The event also featured Hanmantrao Gaikwad, Chairman and Managing Director of BVG Group, as Special Speaker. He shared insights on scaling enterprises and the role of entrepreneurship in nation-building.
Several major announcements were made during the programme, including the launch of 24 chapters of the Federation of Marathi Entrepreneurs to create a structured statewide network. Maharashtra Connect, a new platform aimed at fostering collaboration, mentorship and market access, was also unveiled.
Dr Maali additionally introduced his forthcoming book, Marathi te Millionaire, featuring 51 entrepreneurial success stories. The launch took place in the presence of Mr and Mrs Hanmantrao Gaikwad, his parents, and senior leaders of Udyami Maharashtra, including co-founder Aakankssha Omkaar Maali, CEO Dolly Ritesh Dave and CTO Shivam Thakur.
Founded in 2020, Udyami Maharashtra has trained over 10,000 youth in import-export and enterprise development, enabling businesses across Maharashtra and international markets such as Dubai, Kazakhstan and Ukraine. The movement also supports women entrepreneurs, manufacturing exporters and farmers, and has facilitated the establishment of India’s first import-export cooperative society. The UDYAMI Awards continue to serve as a platform recognising business excellence while encouraging first-generation entrepreneurs to scale sustainable enterprises across Maharashtra.
