IIT Bombay celebrated India’s 79^th Independence Day with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm at the IIT Bombay campus on August 15, 2025.

The day began with the hoisting of the National Flag by Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay, followed by the collective singing of the National Anthem by all attendees.

 

Prof. Kedare delivered an inspiring address to the gathering, paying homage to India’s freedom fighters. He underlined the contributions of Indian industry, academia, and researchers in shaping the growth and integration of India as a nation. He further stressed the need to find unity in diversity for a united and strong nation.

The Chief Guest, Mr. Rajiv Pandia, Former Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Herdillia Chemicals Limited, urged the audience to contribute actively to the country’s development.

The cultural performances that followed reflected the spirit of unity in diversity.

Two of IIT Bombay’s longest serving employees, Mr. Naresh Talawdekar, Administrative Superintendent, Academic Section (UG), and Mr. Prasanna S. Hate, Offg. Asstt. Registrar, Academic Office, were felicitated by the Director and the Chief Guest for their significant dedication and valuable contribution to the Institute.

 

A Thousand Feet of Pride: IIT Bombay’s Tiranga March

Elsewhere, the spirit of patriotism swept across IIT Bombay’s campus as NCC IITB carried a 1,000-ft. Tiranga from the Main Archway near VMCC to the NCC area. Students, professors, staff, and children walked together holding the massive tricolour, shouting slogans that echoed through the campus. Professors marched alongside students, chanting with the same energy, pride on their faces matching the rhythm of every step. Security teams ensured the path was clear, keeping the march smooth from start to finish.

People stopped in their tracks to watch, some pulling out their phones to capture the sight of the flag stretching out like a never-ending wave of saffron, white, and green. The chants grew louder with every turn, and the bond between those carrying the flag grew stronger with every step.

Participants left with tired legs but lifted spirits — carrying with them the memory of walking for the country, together, as one.

After the spirited Tiranga March on the morning of August 15, the celebrations found their perfect finale in the evening with the screening of the movie MAJOR at LT–PCSA. The hall was packed to the brim, the energy infectious, and the anticipation unmistakable.

As the lights dimmed and the story of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, Ashoka Chakra awardee and hero of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, came alive on screen, the audience was taken through a whirlwind of love, sacrifice, and extraordinary courage. Whistles echoed during the fierce NSG combat scenes, while laughter lit up the lighter moments, and then came the moment that froze the room when the dialogue, “Don’t come up, I’ll handle them,” played. The hall went still, the words hanging in the air like a final salute, a reminder that some walls of safety are built on the last stand of one man.

A day earlier, the “Aazadi ke Rang, Vaani ke Sang” programme was held at the Institute, an initiative dedicated to freedom, unity, and the Indian spirit. This title celebrates the joy, diversity, and unity of India’s independence and ensures that these ideals always remain alive in the hearts of the people.

IIT Bombay’s Independence Day celebrations showcased patriotic pride and the spirit of unity, resilience, and community that defines the Institute. From the inspiring words of leaders to the collective energy of the Tiranga March and the heartfelt homage to national heroes, the day reaffirmed IIT Bombay’s commitment to nurturing responsible citizens, innovators, and leaders who carry forward India’s legacy with pride, courage, and a shared vision for a stronger, united nation.

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