Mumbai Alumni Connect 2024, held in the Institute’s home city, was a resounding success. The event brought together a vibrant community of alumni for an evening filled with nostalgia and meaningful connections. The stellar turnout reflected the deep affection and lasting impact IIT Bombay continues to have on its graduates.

The gathering featured engaging discussions led by Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director of IIT Bombay, and Prof. Ravindra Gudi, Dean ACR, who shared exciting updates about the Institute’s latest advancements.

In his address, Prof. Kedare highlighted the evolution of IIT Bombay’s reputation, stating, “At our time, IIT was a brand, today IIT Bombay is a brand.” He emphasized the critical role alumni play in bridging the gap between research and its practical applications, noting that while the Institute excels in the science of technology, the challenge lies in mastering the engineering of technology. He stressed the need for closer collaboration with industry to move from research to real-world solutions. Prof. Kedare also expressed his confidence in the alumni community, saying, “Any dream we have can be translated into reality because of our alumni,” and invited them to share their insights on how the Institute can continue to improve.

Prof. Gudi echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that IIT Bombay is in a transformative phase. He spoke about the Institute’s efforts not only in placing students in jobs but also in creating employment opportunities through startups. He also underscored the importance of philanthropic support from alumni, particularly for infrastructure development, to help the Institute achieve its ambitious goals.

The event also featured insightful presentations from key alumni, each contributing to the evening’s theme of progress and connection.

Esteemed alumnus Mr. Kirat Patel provided an update on Project Evergreen, reassuring attendees that the project is on track for its April 26, 2025, handover. He shared that out of the targeted Rs. 195 crore for the project, Rs. 140 crore has already been raised, leaving Rs. 40-50 crore still to be collected. His update inspired confidence in the successful completion of this important initiative.

Mr. Ajay Kunnath, the Head of the Mumbai Chapter, spoke passionately about the chapter’s ongoing initiatives, particularly the Powai Lake Rejuvenation Forum (PLRF). He detailed PLRF’s efforts to prevent the entry of wastewater, solids, and pollutants into the lake, the continuous removal of lake hyacinth and other weeds, and the desilting of the lake along the IIT shoreline. Once the shoreline is cleared, construction of the Constructed Wetlands (CWs) will begin. Mr. Kunnath also called on alumni to get involved in the Mumbai Chapter activities and encouraged community engagement in the preservation of Powai Lake.

For those interested in volunteering, more details can be found here.

Mr. Advait Kurlekar, Chairperson of IITBAA, addressed the critical role alumni play in the Institute’s development. He emphasized the importance of alumni connections in fostering IIT Bombay’s growth and progress, reiterating how these bonds continue to support the Institute’s ambitious goals.

As the evening progressed, the energy and enthusiasm in the room grew as alumni reminisced and reflected on their shared memories while looking forward to future collaborations. The event was a resounding celebration of shared memories and a testament to the dynamic activities of the Mumbai Chapter and IITBAA.

Relive more memorable moments of the evening by viewing the photo album here.

IIT Bombay extends its heartfelt gratitude to the IITBAA (Mumbai Chapter Executive Committee) for their exceptional efforts in orchestrating this memorable event. The remarkable turnout and enthusiastic participation at Mumbai Alumni Connect 2024 is a powerful reminder of the deep, lasting connection between IIT Bombay and its alumni—a bond that continues to strengthen and inspire with every gathering.