At IIT Bombay, our faculty members embody a holistic approach to life, seamlessly blending their academic pursuits with personal passions. Dr. T. T. Niranjan, one such luminary, exemplifies this ethos as he shares his exhilarating journey of ice climbing in the Alps. Despite the rigors of academia, Dr. Niranjan’s adventurous spirit took him on a weeklong expedition to Cogne, a renowned destination in the Italian Alps, reflecting our community’s unwavering commitment to exploration and discovery.

In his captivating article titled “Ice climbing: an intro from the perspective of a serious amateur climber,” featured in Fundamatics’ latest issue on adventure sports, Dr. Niranjan offers insights into his immersive experience navigating steep water ice and challenging mixed climbing routes like Monia Mena. Collaborating with a seasoned mountain guide, he pushed his limits while prioritizing safety, showcasing not only his adventurous spirit but also his dedication to excellence in all endeavours.

Dr. Niranjan’s journey underscores the supportive environment at IIT Bombay, where faculty members are empowered to pursue their passions beyond the confines of traditional academia. His legacy extends beyond research and teaching, encompassing the vibrant climbing community he helped foster on campus – which is a testament to the enriching culture of exploration and growth cultivated within the Institute.

As Dr. Niranjan eloquently puts it, “I am grateful to IITB for allowing me to push my boundaries in not just research and teaching, but also in climbing! Impossible without a supportive spouse and an excellent, stable job. If anyone asks what’s my legacy, I won’t say the programs/labs I helped develop or my research; it will be the bouldering wall and climbing community we (re-)built at IITB.”

For a more detailed account of his ice climbing odyssey, readers can delve into Dr. Niranjan’s first-person narrative available at this link: Ice Climbing: An Intro from the Perspective of a Serious Amateur Climber

In encapsulating his ice-climbing escapade, Dr. Niranjan shares more than a thrilling adventure he undertook. He highlights the pivotal role that IIT Bombay plays in nurturing a culture where faculty members are encouraged to pursue their passions beyond the academic realm. His narrative outlines the Institute’s ethos of exploration and innovation and is a testament to the boundless opportunities for growth and discovery cultivated within its walls.

Congratulations Dr. T.T. Niranjan!