1 – Golden Jubilee Reunion: Class of 1975

A Legacy Unlike Any Other: IIT Bombay’s Class of 1975 Celebrates Golden Jubilee Reunion and Redefines Alumni Giving

Fifty years ago, they walked out of the gates of IIT Bombay as graduates, ready to take on the world. This past weekend, they walked back in—not just as accomplished professionals, but as the architects of one of the most transformative legacies an alumni batch has ever left behind.

As the Class of 1975 gathered to celebrate their Golden Jubilee Reunion, the air was thick with nostalgia, gratitude, and an unshakable bond with the Institute that shaped them. The highlight of the event was a presentation by the batch that took the audience on an unforgettable journey through their years at the Institute. From the inception of Mood Indigo in 1973, now Asia’s largest student cultural festival, to their instrumental role in creating bedrock institutions like the IIT Bombay Alumni Association (IITBAA) and the IIT Bombay Heritage Foundation, the Class of 1975 has not just supported IIT Bombay—they have shaped it.

“The Class of 1975 has set a gold standard for alumni giving,” said Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay. “Their generosity has shaped our campus, our programmes, and our future. Their contributions are not just monetary; they are visionary investments that have positioned IIT Bombay as a global leader in education, research, and innovation.”

The Class of 1975’s resolute commitment to IIT Bombay has redefined alumni giving over the past five decades. Their philanthropy has been instrumental in shaping the Institute’s infrastructure, culture, and future. Distinguished alumni from this batch who have driven projects that foster innovation and excellence and given back generously to their alma mater includes:

• Bharat Desai (Desai Sethi School of Entrepreneurship, Gymkgana, Scholarships)
• Avi Nash (Scholarships, Tinkerers’ Lab)
• Kirat Madhusudan Patel (Tinkerers’ Lab, Project Evergreen)
• Paritosh Choksi (Project Evergreen)
• Parimal Karani (Project Evergreen, Tinkerers’ Lab)
• Prashant Ranade (Tennis Court, Project Evergreen)
• Rajesh Mashruwala (Project Evergreen, UMIC)
• Narayan (Project Evergreen)
• Anil Kshirsagar (Heritage Foundation)
• Hemant Kanakia (Tinkerers’ Lab, Invention Factory)
• Vincent Fernandes (Chair Professorship, Fellowships)

From the groundbreaking Desai Sethi School of Entrepreneurship to dynamic spaces for creativity and collaboration such as the Tinkerers’ Lab, their contributions have left an indelible mark. Projects like Project Evergreen have transformed campus life, enhancing infrastructure, research facilities, and student amenities. These initiatives not only reflect the Class of 1975’s vision but also continue to empower generations of students to push boundaries and lead in the fields of education, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Prof. Ravindra Gudi, Dean ACR added, “For the Class of 1975, giving back was never an obligation—it was a calling. They didn’t just donate; they built. They didn’t just contribute; they created opportunities. Their legacy is woven into the very fabric of IIT Bombay, and their impact will be felt for generations to come.”

As the event drew to a close, batchmates flipped through their Golden Jubilee Yearbook, shared stories from their Silver Jubilee celebrations, and honoured the memory of friends who were no longer with them. Amidst the laughter and reflection, one thing was clear—their connection to IIT Bombay had only deepened with time. The batch summed up their journey and said, “We came to IIT Bombay as young dreamers, and this Institute gave us everything—knowledge, friendships, and a foundation for success. Giving back is not just about gratitude; it’s about ensuring that future students walk into a better IIT Bombay than the one we left.”

The Class of 1975’s contributions to IIT Bombay have set an extraordinary benchmark for alumni engagement, creating a lasting impact that is embedded in the very fabric of the Institute. Through their support for initiatives that foster innovation, empower the next generation, and promote self-reliance, they have laid a strong foundation for the nation’s progress. Their vision also aligns seamlessly with the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat initiatives, positioning IIT Bombay as a key player in advancing India’s journey toward self-reliance and leadership in education, technology, and innovation. The Class of 1975’s enduring generosity has not only transformed IIT Bombay but is also driving India’s rise as a global force in shaping the future of education, innovation, and technological advancement.

For more images from the GJRU 1975, please click here.

2 – Golden Jubilee Reunion: Class of 1974 – HEARTS’74

he Golden Jubilee Reunion (GJRU) of the Class of 1974 was a heartfelt occasion that radiated nostalgia, gratitude, and a deep sense of connection. It was a day filled with cherished moments that ranged from memorable batch photography sessions to emotional tributes honouring retired faculty members who shaped their academic journeys.

The reunion also featured visits to various departments, hostels, and research centres, allowing alumni to reconnect with the very spaces that had defined their time at IIT Bombay.

A standout moment of the event was the launch of the HEARTS’74 Legacy Project (Habitat for Everyone: Affordable, Resilient, Transformative, Sustainable), an inspiring initiative spearheaded by the Class of 1974 to revolutionize affordable housing in India. This initiative will build climate-resilient homes for underserved communities by leveraging technology, innovation, and sustainability. The goal of this visionary project is to build affordable homes for underserved communities by addressing the daily challenges faced by both rural and urban populations across India. Mr. Narendra Goliya, Mr. Ashok Kalbag and Mr. Raj Melvillehe are part of the core team that is driving the HEARTS’74 Project.

The batch has pledged 14 crore to IIT Bombay and has already raised Rs 10 crore, with Rs 8 crore of the total pledge dedicated towards the HEARTS’74 project.

As always, IIT Bombay’s alumni rise to the occasion and HEARTS’74 stands as a beautiful testament to the spirit of giving back and creating a lasting, meaningful impact for future generations.

Click here for more pictures from the GJRU 1974 Reunion.

The Golden Jubilee Reunion of the Class of 1974 was a testament to the enduring bonds formed at IIT Bombay, a celebration that transcended time and distance. It’s moments like these that remind us of the lasting connections we build during our time at the Institute and the powerful impact we can have when we come together. With initiatives like the HEARTS’74 Legacy Project, the Class of 1974 has proven that the spirit of giving and the drive to create positive change can shape the future in extraordinary ways.

Here’s to the Class of 1974 and their determination to make the world a better place!