Which airline’s mascot is the Maharaja?

Air India’s mascot is the Maharaja.

The Maharaja character was created in 1946 by Air India’s commercial director Bobby Kooka and artist Umesh Rao. The figure was designed as a distinctive brand symbol and appeared in advertising, travel materials and promotional campaigns.

Although the word maharaja means “great king,” the character was not intended simply as a portrait of a historical ruler. Air India used the mascot to represent hospitality, service and an Indian cultural identity, often with humor adapted to different destinations.

The Maharaja is associated specifically with Air India and should not be confused with the airline’s logo or its red-and-white aircraft livery. Air India has changed ownership and branding over time, but the mascot remains one of the best-known symbols in airline advertising history.