Belagavi-born Congressman Shri Thanedar has been re-elected to represent Michigan’s 13th Congressional District, achieving a decisive victory over Republican opponent Martell Bivings by more than 35 percentage points. This marks his second term in Congress, a success he credits to his dedication to strong constituent services, support for working families, advocacy for unions, and defense of reproductive rights.
Dr. Thanedar’s journey to the U.S. began in 1979 when he left Belagavi, India, to pursue a Ph.D. in polymer chemistry at the University of Akron, completing it in 1982 after earning his Master’s from the University of Bombay in 1977. He then held a postdoctoral position at the University of Michigan from 1982 to 1984, followed by work as a polymer synthesis chemist and project leader for Petrolite Corporation in St. Louis, Missouri.
In 1990, Thanedar took on a struggling company, Chemir, which had only three employees and $150,000 in annual sales. Under his leadership, Chemir transformed into a thriving business with over $63 million in sales and 400 employees. Known for his expertise in reviving businesses, Thanedar went on to buy and sell eight companies, earning a prominent reputation in the business world.
Thanedar’s journey began humbly in Mirapur Galli, Shahpur, Belagavi, where he grew up as one of six children in a low-income family. He attended Chintamanrao High School, scoring 55% in his SSLC exams, and later took a job with the State Bank of India in Bijapur. Despite early setbacks—including losing his job when he chose to continue his studies in Dharwad after being denied leave—Thanedar remained determined.
His memoir, ही श्रीची इच्छा (“This Is Shri’s Wish”), became a bestseller, detailing his remarkable path from modest beginnings in Belagavi to his achievements in business and U.S. politics.
