IIT Bombay hosted its annual Commencement 2025 ceremony at the Institute’s Convocation Hall, marking a significant milestone for students poised to graduate this academic year. Introduced in 2023, the Commencement ceremony is a recent tradition that allows the entire graduating batch, undergraduates, postgraduates, and PhD scholars, to come together for a shared moment of reflection and celebration before they leave campus.

Unlike the formal Convocation ceremony, which awards degrees and medals, the Commencement serves as a symbolic send-off. It mirrors many ceremonial elements, such as the academic procession, keynote addresses, the student pledge, and a uniform dress code, while offering a more collective and emotionally resonant farewell.

This year’s Commencement was graced by Chief Guest, Mr. Sumant Sinha, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of ReNew, who delivered the keynote address. Reflecting on his own IIT experience, Mr. Sinha said, “It’s an honour to join you at this esteemed institution, our shared learning ground. My years at IIT Delhi were filled with lifelong friendships and humbling lessons. As you leave IIT Bombay equipped with knowledge and skills, use them to innovate, inspire, and drive change. Success lies not just in achievement, but in impact. The future is in your hands—build it with resilience, ethics, and purpose.”

Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay, presented the Institute’s Annual Report for 2024–25. He underscored IIT Bombay’s status as India’s top-ranked university and a global leader in research and innovation. “Education at IIT Bombay is about more than knowledge; it’s about unlocking creativity and preparing leaders for a rapidly changing world. This year, we launched cutting-edge programmes—from M.Eng. degrees in Analog/RF IC Design to e-Postgraduate Diplomas in AI, E-Mobility, and Climate Sustainability. Our research continues to address critical global challenges in areas like nanoelectronics, renewable energy, and carbon capture.”

Prof. Kedare also highlighted IIT Bombay’s investments in infrastructure and student life, from advanced academic facilities and hostels to the thriving Research Park, home to billion-dollar startups. “As you stand on the brink of graduation, know that the foundation you’ve built here is strong. The structure you create on top of it is yours to shape. Carry forward the spirit of IIT Bombay—strive for excellence, break barriers, and contribute meaningfully to society and the nation.”

Dr. Sharad Kumar Saraf, Chairperson of the Board of Governors, reminded students of the lifelong fraternity they now belong to. “At IIT Bombay, we lift each other up. This sense of belonging is why alumni like me remain so deeply connected. As you step into the world, remember: your greatest contribution might one day be how you choose to give back. That is the true guru dakshina.”

In the afternoon, approximately 2,550 students, including around 1,064 undergraduates, 1,327 postgraduates, and 138 PhD scholars, participated in a group photograph with the Director on stage, capturing a cherished memory of their final days at the Institute.

Attended by faculty, members of the Board of Governors, students, and their families, the ceremony was a poignant and inspiring end to the academic journey of the Class of 2025.

As they step into new chapters of their lives, IIT Bombay’s graduating students carry with them not only academic excellence but also the enduring friendships, values, and aspirations that will shape their future paths.