The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) hosted Commencement 2025 today at the Institute’s Convocation Hall, celebrating students expected to graduate in the current academic year. Mr. Sumant Sinha, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ReNew, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and delivered the Commencement Address.
The Commencement ceremony, introduced by IIT Bombay in 2023, is a special occasion conducted annually soon after the second semester examinations, to gather all students expected to graduate in that academic year. Unlike the traditional Convocation, this event is organized to give the entire graduating batch an opportunity to celebrate their time at the Institute before they depart campus. It mirrors the Convocation with elements like the Academic Procession, addresses by the Chief Guest and Director, a pledge ceremony and a uniform dress code, but does not include the awarding of degrees, medals or honors.
The Chief Guest, Mr. Sumant Sinha, Founder, Chairman & CEO, ReNew inspired the passing out batch by sharing, "It's an honour to join you today, at this esteemed institution, our shared learning ground. My four years at IIT Delhi were among the best in my life, filled with learning, lifelong friendships and humbling experiences. As you graduate from IIT, equipped with knowledge and skills, use them to innovate, inspire and drive change. Success is not just personal achievement but also making a positive impact, especially amid climate threats and global challenges. The future is in your hands. With determination, resilience and ethical choices, you can shape a sustainable, happy and fulfilling world for all".
Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director of IIT Bombay, presented the Institute’s Report for the academic year 2024–25, highlighting that IIT Bombay maintains its position as the top-ranked university in India and among the leading institutions globally. Prof. Kedare said, “At IIT Bombay, we believe that education is not just about imparting knowledge; it is about nurturing creativity, fostering innovation and preparing our students to lead in an ever-evolving world. In the past year, we have continued to expand our academic horizons with new and specialized programs, from M.Eng. degrees in cutting-edge fields like Analog/ Mixed-Signal/ RF IC Design, to transformative e-Postgraduate Diplomas in AI, E-Mobility and Climate Sustainability. Our research footprint has grown significantly with projects funded by both national and international agencies, tackling critical challenges such as nanoelectronics, renewable energy and carbon capture.
But beyond academic and research excellence, IIT Bombay has been committed to creating a vibrant campus that encourages holistic development. We are building state-of-the-art infrastructure to support not only academic growth, but also residential, recreational and entrepreneurial pursuits. From our new student hostels and faculty residences to our Research Park which houses startups valued in billions, our efforts are designed to foster a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Today, as you stand on the brink of graduation, I am filled with immense pride for the bright individuals you have become. The world needs your ideas, your passion and your drive to make an impact. What we’ve provided you here at IIT Bombay is a strong foundation, but the structure you build on top of it is yours to create. As you move forward, I urge you to never stop striving for excellence, to break through any societal or technological barriers and to contribute to the betterment of society and our nation. We look forward to seeing the monumental contributions you will make in the years ahead".
The Chairperson, Board of Governors of IIT Bombay Dr. Sharad Kumar Saraf said, “It does not matter whether you are senior or junior — at IIT, we are all here to help each other grow. You are now part of a fraternity built over more than 60 years on the foundation of world-class education and lifelong bonds. This sense of belonging is why alumni like me continue to feel deeply connected to our alma mater and why so many of us have come together to give back, whether by building hostels, supporting causes, or mentoring the next generation. As you step into a world full of promise, remember that your greatest contribution may one day be the way you return to uplift the place that gave you your start. That, truly, is the guru dakshina you can offer”.
IIT Bombay introduced this event ‘Commencement’ in 2023 so that the students celebrate their journey through IIT Bombay along with all their batch-mates and family members while they embark on a new phase in their lives.
In the afternoon session, approximately 2550 students — including around 1064 undergraduates, 1327 postgraduates and 138 PhD scholars — were invited to a photo opportunity with the Director on the dais, marking a memorable moment for the graduating class.
The ceremony was attended by members of the Board of Governors, faculty members, graduating students and their families. The Commencement ceremony continues to serve as an important milestone in the journey of IIT Bombay students, allowing them to celebrate their achievements and the bonds formed during their time at the Institute, as they step forward into new chapters of their lives.