The Mahindra Thar has carved a niche for itself in the Indian automobile market. Its rugged good looks, off-road prowess, and powerful engine have made it a favorite among adventure enthusiasts. But have you ever wondered who designed this iconic vehicle? The answer might surprise you – it was a woman!

Ramkripa Ananthan played a pivotal role in shaping Mahindra's design language during her tenure as Head of Design from 1997 to 2022. She was instrumental in designing several iconic vehicles, including the first-generation Mahindra XUV500. Ananthan's vision for the XUV500 marked a significant shift for Mahindra, introducing a bold and muscular design aesthetic that appealed to a new generation of car buyers. Her emphasis on blending powerful design with practicality has become a defining characteristic of Mahindra's vehicles.

This design philosophy continued with subsequent models under Ananthan's leadership. The Mahindra TUV300, Marazzo, and KUV100 all showcased a consistent design language that moved Mahindra away from its utilitarian roots and towards a more contemporary and aspirational brand image.

Ramkripa Ananthan Education

Ananthan defied stereotypes by pursuing a well-rounded education that combined engineering and design. She earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the prestigious Birla Institute of Technology, Pilani. After completing her engineering degree, Ananthan didn't stop there. Recognizing the importance of design expertise, she went on to pursue a Master's degree in Design from the Industrial Design Centre (IDC) at Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay). The IDC is a premier design institute in India, renowned for its rigorous curriculum and focus on innovation.

Where is Ramkripa Ananthan Now?

After a successful tenure at Mahindra & Mahindra, Ramkripa Ananthan decided to take on a new challenge. In 2022, she made a significant career move by joining Ola Electric, a leading electric vehicle manufacturer in India. As the Head of Design at Ola Electric, she's now shaping the future of electric mobility in India.

Who designed Mahindra Thar Roxx

Mahindra Thar Roxx's design was lead by Mr. Pratap Bose, the chief designer of Mahindra.