Picture Courtesy: The Times of India

It is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell to one of our own, Dr. T. N. Subramaniam (B.Tech., Mechanical Engineering, 1971), an illustrious alumnus of IIT Bombay. Dr. Subramaniam passed away in Michigan, USA, at the age of 76.

Dr. Subramaniam’s pioneering contributions in the fields of mathematics, automotive technology, and computer science have left an indelible mark on the world stage.

Dr. Subramaniam’s journey began at IIT Bombay, where he distinguished himself both as a student and later as a lecturer. He played an integral role in shaping the cultural fabric of the Institute, notably contributing to the creation of Mood Indigo, the hallmark annual cultural festival of IITB.

Following his tenure at IITB, Dr. Subramaniam embarked on a remarkable career path, immigrating to the United States in 1979. There, he immersed himself in groundbreaking research and teaching in advanced mathematics and computer science, earning acclaim and recognition for his innovative work.

His professional trajectory took a significant turn when he joined General Motors, where he was instrumental in developing mathematical models for GM cars. Dr. Subramaniam’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Route One, a company that revolutionized auto-financing for GM vehicles and GPS systems. Additionally, his visionary leadership as the architect of the General Motors server in Troy, Michigan, solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in the automotive industry.

Beyond his professional endeavours, Dr. Subramaniam’s legacy is deeply intertwined with his commitment to fostering pride and innovation in his homeland. A personal encounter with then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi served as a catalyst for his pursuit of endeavours that would elevate India on the global stage.

Jairam Ramesh, in a heartfelt tribute, reminisced about Dr. Subramaniam’s iconic presence in the 1967 Films Division documentary, “I am 20,” where his insights into the aspirations of Indian youth captivated audiences nationwide. This documentary not only showcased his intellect but also drew the attention of the Prime Minister, underscoring the impact of his contributions.

Dr. Subramaniam leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, daughter, and son-in-law, who serve in prominent roles in the Biden administration, as well as his brother, TN Ashok, an esteemed International Blogger.

Dr. Subramaniam’s remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to us all. His legacy of innovation, excellence, and unwavering commitment to his craft will continue to resonate within academic and professional circles worldwide.

As we mourn the loss of a true visionary, let us also celebrate the profound impact Dr. Subramaniam had on our lives and the world at large. His spirit will forever remain an integral part of the IIT Bombay community, inspiring future generations to reach for the stars and make their mark on the world, just as he did.

Rest in peace, Dr. Subramaniam. Your brilliance will continue to illuminate our path forward.