IIT Bombay Marks Alumni Day 2025 with Rs 50 Crore Pledge from Class of 2000
The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) celebrated its annual Alumni Day on December 28, 2025, at the Victor Menezes Convention Centre on campus. This year’s event was particularly significant as it marked the contributions of the silver jubilee batch of 2000, who pledged a remarkable Rs 50 crore towards a Legacy Project aimed at supporting academic and research initiatives at the institute.
Event Highlights
The Alumni Day brought together a diverse group of attendees, including alumni, faculty, students, and institute leadership. The gathering was a testament to the enduring connections between IIT Bombay and its alumni community.
Welcoming Remarks
Prof. Upendra Bhandarkar, the dean of alumni and corporate relations, welcomed the gathering and emphasized the deepening engagement between the institute and its alumni. He noted the importance of alumni in fostering a vibrant educational environment and contributing to the institute’s ongoing success.
Director’s Address
IIT Bombay Director, Prof. Shireesh Kedare, addressed the audience, highlighting the pivotal role that alumni have played in the institute’s journey. He stated, “Alumni form a vital part of the IIT Bombay community, contributing not just resources but also invaluable expertise and strong links with society and industry.”
Awards and Recognitions
During the event, five distinguished alumni were honored with the Distinguished Service Award for their exceptional contributions to the institute. Additionally, seven alumni received Chapter Service Awards in recognition of their sustained efforts in supporting IIT Bombay and its global alumni chapters.
Major Contributions and Institutional Milestones
The highlight of the day was the announcement of the Rs 50 crore pledge by the Class of 2000. This significant contribution will be directed towards the Legacy Project, which aims to enhance academic and research capabilities at IIT Bombay.
Impact of Alumni Contributions
Prof. Kedare acknowledged the impact of donor contributions, stating, “These contributions have helped establish centres of excellence, chair professorships, and enhance campus infrastructure, while playing a key role in student development.” The financial support from alumni is crucial for the institute’s growth and innovation.
Launch of GO-IIT Bombay Fundraising Campaign
The event also marked the launch of the GO-IIT Bombay 2025–26 fundraising campaign. This initiative aims to expand alumni participation in supporting academic and research initiatives at the institute. The campaign seeks to engage more alumni in contributing to the long-term vision of IIT Bombay.
Book Launch and Special Recognition
As part of the celebrations, the institute also launched a book titled “The Groundbreaker,” authored by Kanwal Rekhi. The book reflects on Rekhi’s entrepreneurial journey from IIT Bombay to Silicon Valley, serving as an inspiration for current students and alumni alike.
Furthermore, Kirat Patel was felicitated for becoming the first chairman emeritus of the IIT Bombay alumni association, recognizing his contributions to the organization and the institute.
Conclusion
The Alumni Day 2025 at IIT Bombay was a significant event that not only celebrated the achievements of alumni but also reinforced the strong bond between the institute and its graduates. The Rs 50 crore pledge from the Class of 2000 stands as a testament to the commitment of alumni towards the future of IIT Bombay, ensuring that the institute continues to thrive as a center of excellence in education and research.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest updates from IIT Bombay and aims to highlight the importance of alumni contributions to educational institutions.
