It is with great respect and incredible sorrow that we share the news of the passing of Dr. Hans C. Maru (B.Tech., Chemical Engineering, 1967), a cherished alumnus of IIT Bombay. Mr. Suresh Dedhia, a close family member and fellow IIT Bombay alum, conveys his heartfelt tribute to Dr. Maru:

“IIT Mumbai alumnus Dr. Hans C. Maru (1967 Chem Eng, Hostel VI) passed away on July 26, 2024, at his residence in Queens, New York City, at the age of 81.

Born in Kuchchh, Gujarat, Hans earned his Ph.D. from Illinois Institute of Technology in 1975. He joined FuelCell Energy, Inc., Danbury, CT in 1977, rising to Executive Vice-President and Chief Technology Officer. An internationally recognized expert in the fuel cell generator field, Hans was granted 13 patents and authored over 110 publications.

Hans was known for his humility, insatiable zeal for learning, perseverance, and dedication to the greater good, which made him an inspiration to everyone he touched in professional, family, and friends circles. He was a founding member of the Connecticut Jain Center and ran the center at his home for many years, inspiring many souls to lead a Jain way of living.

Hans is survived by his wife Usha; children Vivek & Tania (with Luka & Sajan), Sheela & Duncan (with Anand & Umed), Chintan & Edwin, three brothers, two sisters, and a huge extended family and friends.

We celebrate Hans’s impactful life and contributions to science and society. Condolence messages can be sent to hansmaru@gmail.com.”

Dr. Hans C. Maru’s remarkable legacy in the field of science and his enduring contributions to his community have left an indelible mark. As an esteemed alumnus of IIT Bombay, Dr. Maru’s achievements reflect the Institute’s commitment to nurturing excellence and fostering innovation. His impact on both his profession and his community embodies the values of perseverance and dedication that IIT Bombay instills in its students.

As we remember his life and contributions, we honour his personal accomplishments, as well as the enduring spirit of IIT Bombay that he so vividly represented. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family and all who were touched by his extraordinary presence. May his memory continue to inspire and his legacy serve as a shining example of the values we hold dear.

May his soul attain eternal Sadgati.