Sadanand Kunder, Excel India Protective Paints Pvt Ltd Promoter, Receives Prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award

Mumbai, January 11, – Mr. Sadanand Kunder, the Sole Promoter of Excel India Protective Paints Pvt. Ltd., was honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award before a distinguished gathering, at a conference jointly organized by ICT Mumbai (formerly UDCT) & The Colour Society in Mumbai.

The award, a symbol of Mr. Kunder's exceptional contributions to the paint industry, was presented by Shri. J. B. Joshi, Padma Bhushan, the former Director of ICT. The event was graced by esteemed guests Ms. Priya Bhumkar, MD of Soujanya Colour, Mr. Hari Kumar, CEO of Udupi Cochin Shipyard Ltd., among others.

The ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ acknowledge individuals for their outstanding contributions to the scientific and technological advancements in the paint industry. The award celebrates industry leaders recognizing their dedication, innovation, and role in setting industry benchmarks. It also serves as an inspiration for future professionals to strive for excellence.

Notable past recipients of this distinguished award include luminaries such as Mr. Ashwin Dani, co-founder of Asian Paints, Mr. Subhash Dandekar, Chairman Emeritus of Kokuyo Camlin, and Mr. J. M. Nadkarni, former shareholder, and technical director of Bombay Paints.

From his humble beginnings, Mr. Sadanand Kunder has become a prominent figure in paint manufacturing, marine paint contracting for shipbuilding and ONGC, earning him this Lifetime Achievement Award. In 1981, at the age of 18½ , he moved to Mumbai from Udupi to overcome financial difficulties and started his career as a Junior Painting Supervisor at a daily wage of Rs.9/-. Aiming high and moving ahead he secured his first labour contract in 1984 at a shipyard in Ghodbunder and later securing major contracts from prestigious organizations like Mazagon Dock Limited, L&T, Chowgule Group, Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard, dominating the industry for four decades.

His 40 year journey marked by significant contributions to the paint sector, industry advancements and support for young entrepreneurs, is acknowledged by this award.

Expressing his gratitude upon receiving the award, Mr. Sadanand Kunder remarked, “It is a tremendous honour to receive this Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing the modest contributions I've made to the paint industry. I hope this serves as an inspiration for young entrepreneurs to contribute to the growth of New India. My hearty congratulations to my fellow recipient.”

The Colour Society, established in 1952 by ICT alumni, stands tall as one of the oldest organizations of paint professionals. Its mission is to advance scientific and technological developments in industries related to the manufacturing of paints, inks, pigments, synthetic resins and allied products.

About Excel India Protective Paints Private Limited:

Excel Paints, a leading name in high-performance coatings manufacturing, serves as a trusted partner for renowned establishments in defence OEMs including Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Mazgaon Dock, L&T, Chowgule Group, Bharat Forge, ONGC, among others.