The Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) celebrated its 52nd Foundation Day with a gathering of faculty, students, alumni, and staff that reflected on the Institute’s enduring journey of excellence, innovation, and impact in management education. The event paid tribute to IIMB’s five-decade legacy while reaffirming its mission to nurture ethical, inclusive, and purpose-driven leadership.
Inspiration and Insight from Distinguished Speakers
Opening the celebration, Professor Dinesh Kumar, Director In-charge of IIM Bangalore, welcomed the audience and spoke about the Institute’s evolution as a global thought leader. He highlighted IIMB’s continued focus on shaping leaders who combine analytical rigor with empathy and a sense of public purpose.
The Foundation Day Lecture was delivered by Ambassador Nirupama Rao, former Foreign Secretary of India, on the theme “Beyond Borders: Preparing for a World in Transition.” She underscored how trust and collaboration are strategic imperatives in a rapidly changing world. “Trust is not a sentiment but a strategy,” she observed, “one that enables societies and institutions to build resilience in uncertain times.” Ambassador Rao commended IIM Bangalore for preparing responsible leaders who balance business performance with social impact.
The celebration also highlighted IIMB’s milestones from the past year — new academic initiatives, sustainability efforts, global partnerships, and deeper alumni engagement — reinforcing the Institute’s commitment to innovation and inclusion.
Recognising Alumni Excellence: The Alumni Service Awards (ASA)
The highlight of the IIM Bangalore Foundation Day 2025 was the presentation of the Alumni Service Awards (ASA), an honour bestowed upon alumni who have made exceptional contributions to the Institute, the IIM Bangalore Alumni Association (IIMBAA), and the larger alumni ecosystem.
Professor Dinesh Kumar presented the awards to three distinguished alumni whose service exemplifies IIMB’s values of integrity, community, and leadership:
Navin Kumar (PGP 1999)
Karan Bhagat (PGP 2001)
Michael Sequeira (PGP 2010)
Navin Kumar (PGP 1999)
A senior leader in technology and professional services, Navin Kumar has been a long-standing contributor to IIM Bangalore’s alumni initiatives. As Vice-President of the IIMB Alumni Association (2018–19), he helped launch IIMBueX, the first virtual edition of the Institute’s flagship leadership conclave.
“This award is a celebration of the bonds we share as a community,” he said. “I feel privileged to give back to the Institute that gave me so much.”
Karan Bhagat (PGP 2001)
Founder and CEO of a leading financial-services organization, Karan Bhagat continues to champion collaboration between industry and academia. His engagement with IIM Bangalore spans leadership forums and alumni-student initiatives.
“IIMB was a transformative journey,” he reflected. “It instilled in me the courage to take risks, the discipline to persist, and the conviction that purpose must guide ambition.”
Michael Sequeira (PGP 2010)
Michael Sequeira has played a pivotal role in advancing inclusivity and accessibility within the IIM Bangalore community. As a student, he helped establish the Office of Disability Services (ODS) — a first for the Institute — ensuring equitable access for all learners.
“One of the most transformative moments during my time at IIMB was the establishment of the Office of Disability Services,” he said. “This award is a celebration of the collective impact of everyone who has been part of such initiatives that followed.”
Celebrating the IIMB Community Spirit
The Foundation Day celebration also recognised members of IIM Bangalore’s faculty and staff who have completed long years of dedicated service to the Institute. The Long-Service Awards honoured individuals whose commitment, integrity, and contribution have played a vital role in building and sustaining IIMB’s reputation for excellence.
Professor Dinesh Kumar, Director In-charge, presented the awards and commended the recipients for their steadfast dedication.
“IIMB’s progress over the decades rests on the shoulders of its people — those who have built, nurtured, and sustained this institution with quiet dedication and pride,” he said.
The awardees — representing both academic and administrative departments — were warmly applauded by the audience for their long-standing service, reflecting the Institute’s deep appreciation for its community of professionals who have contributed to its success and spirit of continuity.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks and a call for continued alumni engagement through mentorship and institutional partnerships.
Looking Ahead
The 52nd Foundation Day reaffirmed IIM Bangalore’s shared journey with its alumni — a partnership built on purpose, leadership, and service. As the Institute enters its next chapter, the stories of its alumni continue to inspire a global community that believes true leadership lies in contributing to others and advancing collective growth.
