Central Bank of India today engaged with members of the Parsi community as part of its efforts to strengthen long-standing relationships with key stakeholders, at a time when the Bank has reported improved financial performance for the quarter ended December 31, 2025.
Central Bank of India shares deep historical links with the Parsi community. Founded in 1911 by Sir Sorabji Pochkhanawala, who described the institution as the “property of the nation and the country’s asset.” The Bank’s first Chairman Sir Pherozeshah Mehta was also from Parsi community.. Over its 114-year history, the Bank has navigated multiple economic cycles while remaining anchored to its core philosophy of being a “people’s own bank.”
The Bank acknowledged the significant role played by Parsi community in India’s economic development, particularly in industry, finance, trade and philanthropy, contributing to the creation of several iconic enterprises and institutions that have shaped the country’s corporate landscape.
The programme was well attended by prominent members of the Parsi community, including descendants of the Bank’s founder and Bank’s first chairman, Mr. Keki Mistry, former vice chairman and CEO of HDFC, Mr. Jimmy Mistry, Mr. Mickey Mehta, Mr. Dinshaw Mehta, former chairman of Bombay Parsi Panchayat, Mr. Viraf Mehta, Present Chairman of Bombay Parsi Panchayat, Padma Shri Ms. Penaz Masani and Mr. Ratan Luth etc. lending a special historical significance to the interaction.
The interaction renewed this historic relationship while showcasing the Bank’s customer-focused initiatives, and its role in supporting economic activity across the retail, MSME, agricultural and industrial sectors. The Bank has recorded significant growth in total business, having strong CASA base—among the best in the industry—robust growth in advances and improved asset quality.
Senior leadership of the Bank reflected on the founder’s extraordinary vision of creating a truly Indian Bank owned and operated by Indians, at a time when banking in India was dominated by foreign interests. They also highlighted how the values of trust, resilience and excellence, hallmarks of the Parsi ethos, continue to guide the Bank’s journey even today.
Speaking on the occasion, Bank’s officials expressed deep gratitude to the Parsi community for their unwavering support in the formative years of the institution and reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to upholding the legacy of its founder through customer-centric, ethical and inclusive banking.
“The interaction with the Parsi community provided a valuable opportunity to exchange views and better understand their evolving banking expectations. The keen interest shown in our products and services reinforces our commitment to continue serving the community and strengthen long-term relationships,” said by Shri Kalyan Kumar, MD & CEO, Central Bank of India.
Such engagements form part of the Bank’s broader strategy to deepen relationships with key stakeholders. Central Bank of India plans to hold similar interactions from time to time, as it continues to strengthen its retail banking franchise through sustained customer engagement.