Mahindra spreads ‘Anand’, admires and supports Kolkata artisan’s craft

Industrialist Anand Mahindra is often in the news for his thoughtful social media presence and quiet, meaningful gestures.

This time, he has drawn appreciation for supporting a 94-year-old Santa Claus artisan from Kolkata.

In a post on X, Mahindra shares the story of CH Chang, who in his nineties continues to handcraft Santa dolls.

Moved by his dedication to his craft, Mahindra urges people in Kolkata to connect with the artisan and value his work.

Mr. Chang’s story is incredibly poignant.

At 94, his dedication to his craft is a reminder of why we should value artisanship over assembly lines.

I’m reaching out to friends in Kolkata to connect with him.

I want to buy a signed piece at a premium (perhaps with a fabric tag… pic.twitter.com/l2Hus81EWu

— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) December 27, 2025

His post carries both warmth and intent: “Mr. Chang’s story is incredibly poignant. At 94, his dedication to his craft is a reminder of why we should value artisanship over assembly lines. I’m reaching out to friends in Kolkata to connect with him. I want to buy a signed piece at a premium (perhaps with a fabric tag saying “Made by C.H. Chang?”) Not out of sympathy, but because his work is a rare treasure. Let’s ensure his festive season secures his year-round income. An autographed Mr. Chang original is a legacy worth owning.”

Earlier this week, he tweeted about receiving his share of the specially commissioned signed figures.

I had posted earlier about the indomitable Mr. Chang of Kolkata, who at 94, continues to produce his handmade Santa Claus dolls every Christmas, despite rising odds.

I’m very grateful to Paroma, daughter of my friend Harsh Neotia, who connected with Mr. Chang and conveyed my… https://t.co/442XMLzB12 pic.twitter.com/WZHbzdikKN

— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) January 13, 2026

Taking it to X, he wrote: “I had posted earlier about the indomitable Mr. Chang of Kolkata, who at 94, continues to produce his handmade Santa Claus dolls every Christmas, despite rising odds. I’m very grateful to Paroma, daughter of my friend Harsh Neotia, who connected with Mr. Chang and conveyed my suggestion of making signed editions of his dolls which could become higher priced collector’s items, and help sustain his business. She placed my order and received my four specially commissioned and signed figures. My hope is that they will be prized possessions of my grandchildren long into the future…”

The response online was warm and reflective. Many praised the gesture for the way it reframed value placing dignity and legacy at the heart of craftsmanship.

An X user commented: “This is leadership at its most human. By seeing dignity in Mr. Chang’s lifelong craft, you showed us that true success is not just about scale, but about soul. When legacy uplifts legacy, generations are inspired. This is how #hope is handcrafted—and preserved.”

Another user wrote: “That's a heartwarming story of resilience and legacy! Mr. Chang's dedication at 94 is truly inspiring—handmade Santa dolls as collector's items are a brilliant idea. Kudos to Paroma for making it happen, and how special for your grandchildren to cherish these signed treasures for generations. Wishing Mr. Chang many more joyful Christmases.”

In a digital world where stories often fade as quickly as they surface, Mahindra’s intervention ensured that this one would endure not just as a viral moment, but as a living legacy passed from one set of hands to another.