The Institute’s illustrious alumni have contributed over the past several decades in diverse ways in terms of resources, time and their wisdom. In a very distinctive-of-its-kind donation, the Class of 1969 has added a vibrant chapter to the story of giving back to IIT Bombay.

During their reunion on campus, many of the alumni and their families noticed the bare walls of the Institute’s buildings and the guesthouse where they stayed. Inspired to make a meaningful contribution, 29 alumni members and their families came together to donate 70 paintings—turning blank walls into spaces brimming with life and creativity. In a very touching and heart-warming event held on campus on December 4^th in the Padma Vihar Guest House, the 1969 batch shared the treasures of their artistic talent with the Institute.

This initiative, spearheaded by Mr. Arun Joshi, goes beyond traditional philanthropy. Of the 70 paintings, 56 were created by the family members of the alumni themselves, offering not just art but a piece of their homes to their alma mater. This heartfelt gesture symbolizes a connection between them that will endure forever, as their creations become part of IIT Bombay’s landscape.

In addition, alumni who reside overseas purchased 11 paintings from the online art site Fizdi.com, which the batch recommends as an excellent resource for other alumni inspired to contribute. The batch also donated 3 paintings by other artists.

The Class of 1969 is heartened by the support shown by Dr. Sharad Saraf, Chairperson, Board of Governors, IIT Bombay, and Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay. Both Dr. Saraf and Prof. Kedare emphasized the importance taking this initiative further and making the entire IIT Bombay campus more “artful” and aesthetic towards a clean, green and healthy ecosystem. The Class of 1969 also hopes that their endeavour will spark similar efforts from other batches to bring more colour and vibrancy to IIT Bombay’s campus. They further wish for Project Evergreen to consider incorporating art into the design of new hostel spaces for students.

See more donated art by the Class of 1969 here.

IIT Bombay is deeply grateful to the Class of 1969 for demonstrating how art can forge timeless connections. This remarkable gesture not only reflects the alumni’s unwavering love and loyalty to their alma mater but also their thoughtful commitment to creating an inspiring and vibrant environment for generations to come.

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