Golden Jubilee Reunion: Class of 1975

Fifty years ago, they walked out of the gates of IIT Bombay as graduates, ready to take on the world. This past weekend, they returned—not just as accomplished professionals, but as a class that has made a meaningful and lasting contribution to their alma mater.

As the Class of 1975 gathered to celebrate their Golden Jubilee Reunion, the event was filled with nostalgia, gratitude, and a strong bond with the Institute. A highlight of the celebration was a presentation by the batch that took the audience through their journey at IIT Bombay. From the inception of Mood Indigo in 1973, now Asia’s largest student cultural festival, to their role in establishing the IIT Bombay Alumni Association (IITBAA) and the IIT Bombay Heritage Foundation, the Class of 1975 has been deeply engaged in strengthening the Institute and its community.

“The Class of 1975 has set a high standard for alumni giving,” said Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay. “Their generosity has helped shape our campus, our programmes, and our future. Their contributions go beyond financial support; they are long-term investments that enhance IIT Bombay’s standing as a global centre for education, research, and innovation.”

Over the past five decades, the Class of 1975 has played an active role in alumni giving, supporting various initiatives at the Institute. Their contributions have helped develop key infrastructure such as the gymkhana, tennis court, and Invention Factory, while also supporting hostel renovations and Project Evergreen. Additionally, their philanthropy has expanded access to student scholarships, fellowships, and faculty awards, fostering an inclusive and enriching academic environment.

Additionally, by establishing the Desai Sethi School of Entrepreneurship and the Tinkerers’ Lab, the Class of 1975 has helped create an ecosystem that encourages innovation and hands-on learning. The ambitious Project Evergreen will enhance campus infrastructure and student resources. Their efforts reflect a long-term vision for IIT Bombay, ensuring that future generations have the tools and opportunities to excel.

Several individuals from the Class of 1975 have made significant contributions toward these initiatives, including Mr. Bharat Desai, Mr. Avi Nash, Mr. Kirat Madhusudan Patel, Mr. Paritosh K Choksi, Mr. Parimal Karani, Mr. Prashant Ranade, Mr. Rajesh Mashruwala, Mr. Narayan, Mr. Anil Kshirsagar, Mr. Hemant Kanakia, and Mr. Vincent Fernandes. Their collective efforts have helped establish spaces for learning, collaboration, and innovation that continue to benefit students and faculty alike.

Prof. Ravindra Gudi, Dean ACR, noted, “For the Class of 1975, giving back has always been about creating opportunities. Their contributions have helped build an ecosystem where students and faculty can thrive. Their impact will continue to shape IIT Bombay for years 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. Speaking on behalf of the batch, Mr. Kirat Patel 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 our way of ensuring that future students walk into an even stronger IIT Bombay than the one we left.”

The Class of 1975’s contributions to IIT Bombay have set a lasting example of alumni engagement. Their support for initiatives that promote innovation, leadership, and self-reliance has helped lay a strong foundation for the nation’s progress, aligning with the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat vision. Their generosity continues to strengthen IIT Bombay’s role in advancing education, research, and technological development—reinforcing the Institute’s impact both in India and on the global stage.

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

Golden Jubilee Reunion: Class of 1974 – HEARTS’74

The 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 Melville 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.

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. 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. 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!

Click here for more pictures from the GJRU 1974 Reunion.

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