Grind Master, the global leader in metal finishing technology, launched its much-anticipated corporate biography, Garage to Global: Ascent to Absolute Engineering, during the prestigious IMTEX 2025 Machine Tool Exhibition at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC). The book, authored by Sameer Kelkar, CEO and R&D Head of Grind Master Machines, commemorates 40 years of relentless innovation, excellence, and sustainability in manufacturing.
"Garage to Global" delves deep into the remarkable history of Grind Master, founded in 1984 in a small garage by Milind and Mohini Kelkar. The book captures the vision, innovation, and relentless determination that propelled Grind Master forward.
Milind Kelkar explains, "In our small way, we have tried to develop things that had not been developed before. We began without a pedigree in machine building, yet we went on to build microfinishers that compete with the best in the world. We have been avid trekkers in our own backyard, Maharashtra, as well as in the Himalayas.
Once, a thought came to my mind, ‘Why are there mountains?' asked Sameer. Then a teenager, who came up with an answer: ‘Mountains are for climbing.' Thus began our quest to find mountains to climb, both in business and in the wonderland of the Himalayas. We kept searching for challenges and conquering them—sometimes failing, but our response to failure is also captured in the book."
Though the company is not large in turnover or size, its achievements in selling sophisticated machines internationally to developed countries are remarkable. The thought process behind going global with innovative products required immense confidence, creative thinking, perseverance, and hard work. The book presents this journey to the world.
"Writing 'Garage to Global' was a journey in itself, uncovering the layers of innovation and resilience that define Grind Master. It's a story that will resonate with anyone who values perseverance and ingenuity," said Sameer Kelkar.
The book launch took place in the Gulmohar Hall at BIEC, attended by industry stalwarts, key stakeholders, global experts, and media representatives. The launch event featured an engaging discussion with three second-generation entrepreneurs—Vishwas Puttige, Nisha Lobo, and Sameer Kelkar—who shared their experiences and perspectives on building globally competitive businesses. A keynote speech by the Chief Guest, Vipin Sondhi, and the Guest of Honour, Shrinivas Shirgurkar, alongside industry guru R. Srinivasan, enriched the event. The founders of Grind Master shared their reflections on the journey and the significance of the book.
Authored by Sameer Kelkar under the mentorship of Shailesh Sheth, Garage to Global is a deeply personal corporate biography.
Baba Kalyani, CMD of Bharat Forge, writes in the foreword: "One of the most intriguing aspects of their approach is their quality philosophy: 100-1 = ZERO. This relentless pursuit of perfection is evident throughout the book. I also found the last chapter, which explores Grind Master's 'Subhashita', particularly fascinating. The saying, ‘Sweat in Grind Master rather than bleed at the customer's end,' reflects a principle that serves as a guiding philosophy for any business striving for excellence."
Vipin Sondhi, the Chief Guest, remarked, "Capital goods, particularly machine tools, are a true measure of a nation's technological prowess. The Grind Master story demonstrates the strength of 'Make in India' in building a specialised equipment business from scratch. The manufacturing industry must collaborate more proactively with the machine tool sector to achieve self-reliance." He also congratulated the entire Grind Master team on their journey of excellence.
Guest of Honour Shrinivas Shirgurkar highlighted how the book resonates with many companies in the machine tool industry that share a similar ‘Garage to Global' story, illustrating how this vital industry has evolved over decades. "Garage to Global is a handbook for entrepreneurs in the machine tool sector," he noted.
R. Srinivasan, who reviewed the book in depth, commented on how the machine tool industry must double in size in the coming years. *"This book comes at the right time to inspire us to achieve more."
Sameer Kelkar, the author, shared, "Celebrating 40 years is a major milestone for our company. I wanted to document the stories that reflect the passion behind Grind Master. There is a lack of literature on the manufacturing industry in general and the machine tool sector in particular. Through the story of Grind Master, I wanted to create something that resonates with manufacturing professionals and entrepreneurs. I have lived my life alongside the company and have observed its evolution—as an admirer, observer, team member, and leader. Garage to Global is therefore as personal as it is professional. The Kelkar family takes its business very personally, and the book reflects this. I hope it will be an enjoyable read."
