By Ramesh Advani, B. Tech, EE, H2
In July 1969, I entered IIT Bombay simply following what my close friends did after first year science at Xavier’s and Aggarwal Classes. Admitted to Electrical Engineering, simply because I could get into that branch and not for any other reason. Just 4 weeks earlier, my life had dramatically changed with my dad – sole earner for our small family suffered a major stroke and would be bedridden for the next 4 years till he passed. Given our family’s circumstances, the nominal tuition and board made a significant difference in my continuing with my education. I got access to an elite education at a minimal cost for tuition & living expenses.
For everyone, the undergraduate experience is transformative. For me, the rigorous nature of the electrical engineering courses created no excitement, rather seemed like a deterrent to learning. But its role in shaping my analytical skills and the competitive environment of my peers pushed me to succeed academically and grow. Even more, the value of elective courses like Philosophy for 5 semesters, expanded my world view. Despite my inherent caution, these experiences inspired me to take risks and move to the US. I realize even now that seeing myself as a learner in a vast and challenging landscape is a core value – made possible by my IIT days.
I can’t go on without mentioning Mood Indigo. My pride in helping establish it and its significance in fostering creativity and community even today is immense. The initiative’s lasting impact on students and its unique place in Indian college culture can only be felt looking back over fifty years. That is a learning that no class or tuition can put a value on. The skills I gained shaped and helped me in my career in the corporate, government, and political worlds.
Today, IIT Bombay can provide a greater impact beyond just the students to change India and the rest of the world by addressing some of its challenges. Rural housing being one such. Our batch of ’74 can play a key role in this through our Legacy Gift.
My donation is not just a gesture but a commitment to sustaining the transformative experiences we had. My hope is that projects like climate resistant housing solutions created by bright IIT grads will encourage rural development and make a permanent difference in India. We each need to reflect on giving back to the institution that enabled our many successes and different life journeys. A collective effort will create substantial changes in addressing the housing problems. Every contribution regardless of size will foster growth and opportunity. I hope you will join me in supporting our class effort. In these sunset years, our class of 1974 can make a difference, and I want to do my small bit. Hope you will too!
IIT Bombay 1974 Reunion 