Mudassir Bakhla, Griffin Awards.
The auditorium lights dimmed slightly as applause filled the hall at the Griffin Awards, an event dedicated to recognising young digital creators who are using their platforms to inspire change and social awareness. Amid the celebration of rising influencers and creators, one name stood out among the evening's distinguished supporters - Mudassir Bakhla, CEO of Bakhla Tours.
Known in the travel and pilgrimage sector as a meticulous planner and a leader who prefers working behind the scenes. On most days, visitors to the Bakhla Tours office would likely find him immersed in spreadsheets, discussing logistics with staff, speaking with pilgrims preparing for Hajj or Umrah, or strategising with his brother Mouazam Bakhla to improve upcoming pilgrimage experiences.
Yet on this particular evening, the spotlight found him. Mr Mudassir Bakhla, who was felicitated at the Griffin Awards for his contribution as a major supporter of the platform that champions young influencers who create meaningful, socially impactful content. The honour carried a special significance as it was presented by Tushar Gandhi, the great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, making the moment both symbolic and emotional.
The recognition was not tied to business growth or travel achievements. Instead, it celebrated Mr Bakhla's commitment to empowering the next generation - a cause he quietly champions beyond his professional responsibilities.
While many often dismiss social media influencers as simply chasing viral fame, the Griffin Awards aim to challenge that narrative. The platform encourages young creators to use their digital reach responsibly - to promote empathy, awareness, and positive change.
Mudassir Bakhla chose to support this mission. According to organisers, his backing of the initiative helped amplify the platform's ability to recognise creators who use their influence for causes ranging from education and awareness to social unity and community service.
To understand the motivation behind his involvement, Mid-Day spoke to Mudassir Bakhla shortly after the ceremony. And when asked, "You are primarily known for your work in the pilgrimage travel sector. What inspired you to support an initiative focused on youth influencers?"
He replied, "Influencers today are a real power. A young person with a phone, a message, and a good following can reach millions. If that influence is used for something meaningful, it can genuinely change perspectives in society.
If we want a better future, we cannot just hope for it. We have to help build it."
And when asked, "Many business leaders hesitate to engage with the influencer space. Why did you decide to step in?"
To which he replied, "When I came across the Griffin Awards platform, I realised it was encouraging young creators to use their voice responsibly. That resonated with me. Supporting them felt like investing in the future.
I didn't see this as a sponsorship. I saw it as a way of telling these young creators: Your voice matters. Use it wisely, and people will stand behind you."
For the Bakhla Tours team present at the ceremony, watching their CEO on stage was a rare moment. Within the company, Mr Mudassir Bakhla is known for his relentless attention to detail and long hours spent ensuring that thousands of pilgrims travel each year safely for Hajj and Umrah. But seeing him recognised for his social values highlighted another dimension of his leadership.
His philosophy is simple: Success should create opportunities for others, too.
In his view, heritage businesses that have achieved stability carry a responsibility - not only to grow but to create stepping stones for the next generation. That idea seemed to echo powerfully in the symbolic handshake on stage between Tushar Gandhi and Mudassir Bakhla.
One represented a legacy deeply rooted in values of service and peace. The other represented a modern entrepreneurial vision focused on building opportunities for the future. Together, the moment captured something rare: A meeting point between history and hope.
The Griffin Awards celebrated dozens of young creators who are using social media to influence society positively. But the evening also carried a broader message - that meaningful change often requires collaboration between generations.
Young voices bring creativity and courage. Experienced leaders bring support, mentorship, and resources. When those two forces meet, real progress becomes possible. And when asked about it, "What message would you like to give young creators who want to make an impact?
Mr Mudassir replied, "Keep creating with purpose. Trends will come and go, algorithms will change, but meaningful ideas will always matter. If your content can inspire someone, educate someone, or bring people together - then you are already making a difference."
For young dreamers, creators, and influencers trying to leave a positive mark on the world, that encouragement might be the most valuable award of all. And if the Griffin Awards evening in Mumbai proved anything, it is this: there are leaders quietly watching the next generation rise - and they are ready to stand behind them.
