Air India Club Maharajah "We call him a Maharajah for want of a better description, but his blood isnt' blue. He may look like royalty, but he isn't royal". These are the words of Bobby Kooka, the man who conceived the Maharajah. This now familiar lovable figure first made his appearance in Air India way back in 1946, when Bobby Kooka was AI Commercial Director & Umesh Rao, an artist with J. Walter Thompson Ltd; together created the Maharajah. The Maharajah has become the most recognizable mascot the world over. His antics, his expressions, his puns have allowed AI to promote its services with a unique panache & an unmatched sense of subtle humour. In fact, he has won numerous national & international awards for AI for humour & originality in publicity.
The Club Maharajah section of this website is a tribute to all creators, visualisers & unsung artists who were involved in creating & promoting this unique mascot for Air India over the years. Hats off to J.R.D. Tata, Bobby Kooka & others who have contributed to the past glories of Air India.