T N Manoharan, the respected Chairman of IDBI Bank and a Padma Shri awardee, passed away in Mumbai on July 30, 2025. The Indian banking and finance fraternity mourns the loss of a visionary leader who left an indelible mark on the nation’s financial landscape. He was 66 years old and reportedly died peacefully in his sleep due to a suspected cardiac arrest.
A Storied Career in Banking and Finance
Shri T N Manoharan had an illustrious career spanning multiple decades. He served as Part-time Chairman and Independent Director at IDBI Bank since February 24, 2022. Prior to this, he held numerous leadership roles, including Non-Executive Chairman of Canara Bank from 2015 to 2020, and Administrator of Lakshmi Vilas Bank during its critical transition period before its merger with DBS Bank in 2020.
Manoharan also served on the boards of some of India’s top corporates including Mahindra & Mahindra, Tech Mahindra, and NaBFID (National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development). His influence extended beyond banking into policy-making and advisory roles in several government and regulatory institutions.
Educational Background and Expertise
A distinguished academic, T N Manoharan held a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from the University of Madras and a Master’s degree in Commerce from Sri Venkateshwara University, Andhra Pradesh. He was also a law graduate and a Chartered Accountant by profession.
His deep expertise covered a broad spectrum including Accountancy, Economics, Banking, Risk Management, Agriculture and Rural Economy, Small Scale Industry, Finance, Law, Human Resources, Business Administration, and Corporate Governance.
Role in Satyam Revival
T N Manoharan played a key role in the revival of Mahindra Satyam following one of India’s biggest corporate frauds. His leadership earned him national acclaim, including the prestigious “Business Leadership Award” presented by the then Finance Minister, and “Indian of the Year 2009” by CNN-IBN, awarded by the then Prime Minister of India.
Contributions and Recognitions
Throughout his career, Manoharan was a part of numerous important committees:
- Committee on Accounting Standards and Taxation, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) (2009–2011)
- Advisory roles with RBI, SEBI, CBDT, CVC, C&AG
- Board member, IRDAI (Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India)
- Member, RBI Standing External Advisory Committee (SEAC)
- Member, BFSI Skill Development Council
His list of accolades is extensive and includes:
- Padma Shri (2010)
- Lifetime Achievement Award (2005)
- Super Achiever Award by Lions International (2006)
- For the Sake of Honour Award by Rotary Club (2007)
- Dronacharya Award by Rotary (2022)
A Leader Remembered
IDBI Bank expressed its deep sorrow over his demise, stating that the bank immensely benefited from his vision, guidance, and leadership. “The Board of Directors and all employees of the Bank express their profound grief and extend heartfelt condolences to his family,” the bank said in an official statement.
T N Manoharan’s leadership, humility, and service to the nation will be remembered for years to come. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience, transformation, and ethical banking.