Bridging the Past and the Future: Highlights from Pune Alumni Connect 2024

Alumni Gathering, Welcome Speech, and Insights about IIT Bombay

IIT Bombay welcomed its esteemed Pune alumni to the Pune Alumni Connect 2024, a gathering filled with laughter, cherished memories, and the joy of reconnecting with old friends.

The event kicked off with Mr. Advait Kurlekar, Chairperson of IIT Bombay Alumni Association and CEO of Upohan Management Consultants Pvt. Ltd. Mr. Kurlekar is a career management consultant working with clients globally on business strategy and its implementation using the Balanced Scorecard framework, process improvement studies and HR transformation. He extended a hearty welcome to the attendees. His insightful address set the tone for an evening of exploration into the latest developments and milestones of our alma mater.

Prof. Subhasis Chaudhuri, Director, IIT Bombay, enlightened the attendees about the exceptional achievements of the Institute and its determination to stand out as a frontrunner among global science and technology institutes. The event continued with a presentation by Prof. Ravindra D. Gudi, Dean ACR, who shed light on the various initiatives and achievements fuelled by robust partnerships with alumni.

Keynote Address by Dr. Ganesh Natarajan

A highlight of the evening was the keynote address by Dr. Ganesh Natarajan, a distinguished alumnus and the Founder of 5F World. Dr. Natarajan specializes in team leadership and business development. His 5F approach, encapsulated in his 5F World initiative, revolves around being Fast, Focused, Flexible, Friendly, and Fun. He is the Board Director for organizations such as Hinduja Global Solutions, SBI Payments, 1 Crowd, Educate Girls, and the Asian Venture Philanthropy Network. Dr. Natarajan is also a member of the Chairmen’s Council of NASSCOM and the National Council of the All India Management Association.

Dr. Natarajan addressed the importance of alumni giving back to their alma mater. He also provided valuable insights into the dynamic world of startups, skills platforms, and social enterprises.

Concluding Remarks and Celebrating Alumni Spirit

The event also showcased a delegation of 18 members from IIT Bombay and the Alumni Association, including Mr. Ravishankar Gedela, CEO of IIT Bombay Development and Relations Foundation, and other key figures contributing significantly to the institute’s growth.

Prof. Ravindra D. Gudi took the stage again to enlighten the audience about IIT Bombay’s annual fundraising campaign, GOIITB 2023-2024, emphasizing the importance of investing in excellence to shape a better tomorrow.

The event also featured a video presentation on Project Evergreen, an alumni-led hostel development project aimed at providing state-of-the-art facilities for students. IITB’s Distinguished Alumnus, Mr. Kirat Patel, who is the Executive Director of Alkyl Amines Chemicals Ltd, is widely recognized for his pivotal role in Project Evergreen addressed the audience and shed light on this innovative initiative. Mr. Patel also serves as a member of the Advisory Board of the IIT Bombay Alumni Association and the Western Regional Committee of the Indian Chemical Council.

The evening concluded with acknowledgments for the IIT Bombay Alumni Association, a video highlighting its remarkable accomplishments, and a talk by Mr. Deepak Thite on the Pune Alumni Chapter’s achievements.

Prof. Gudi delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all attendees and contributors for their valuable presence and support.

As the event drew to a close, attendees were invited to explore merchandise stalls and proceed for dinner, providing an opportunity for further interaction with the Institute’s Dean and Director.

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The Pune Alumni Connect 2024 was not just an event; it was a celebration of the spirit of IIT Bombay and the enduring connections forged within its walls. The Alumni Association continues to thrive, connecting past and present, and shaping the future of the institute, even as it leaves an indelible mark on the world.

Here’s to the memories shared, the knowledge gained, and the bonds strengthened – may the spirit of IIT Bombay continue to shine brightly!

Enjoy these images from the celebrations!