Smiles, Memories, and Life Lessons: Reflections from the IIT Madras Reunion

✨ Smiles Multiplied. Memories Recollected. Joy Unveiled. ✨
This year’s IIT Madras reunion was more than an event — it was an emotional homecoming. A celebration of friendships, shared journeys, unexpected wisdom, and the simple joy of reconnecting with people who shaped some of the best years of our lives.

A Reunion That Went Beyond Nostalgia

Walking back into the IIT Madras campus felt like stepping into a time capsule. Familiar corridors, old hangout spots, and warm faces instantly brought back a flood of memories. But this reunion wasn’t just about reliving the past — it was about rediscovering the people we have become.

I met friends after nearly 15 years, and the bond was just as strong as the day we left campus. I spoke to seniors who graduated in the 1970s, yet remain full of energy, ambition, and purpose — contributing to society in ways that are deeply inspiring. And then I met the 2025 batch, filled with passion, curiosity, and the eagerness to shape a better world.

Many Paths, One Shared Spirit

What struck me most was the sheer diversity in the journeys we now walk:

• Some are serving the nation through civil services.
• Some are leading impactful work in public sector enterprises.
• Some are building exciting startups.
• Some are driving high-performance teams across industries.
• And some have chosen a quieter, joyful path — living meaningfully while uplifting others.

Different destinations, yet one common thread: everyone was doing well, and most importantly, they were happy.

Laughter That Needed No Filters

The best part? The laughter.
Not polite, formal smiles — but the raw, unfiltered, belly-aching laughter that only old friends can share. We pulled each other’s legs, teased each other endlessly, and for a moment, it felt like the hostel days never ended. No roles, no titles, no pretence — just pure joy.

Timeless Advice From People Who Care

I received nuggets of wisdom that I’ll carry forward:

• Honest feedback about my startup journey
• Encouragement about content creation
• Light-hearted (but useful) tips on my wardrobe 😄
• And the most important reminder of all: prioritize your health

Because a healthy body and mind are worth far more than chasing unicorns.

A Question That Stayed With Me

As I left that evening, one powerful question echoed in my mind:

“In the end, what truly matters is — are you joyful doing what you’re doing?”

All those things that once stressed us — assignments, grades, placement anxiety — have faded into stories we now laugh about. What once felt overwhelming now feels insignificant in the grand picture of life.

A Message to Students and Young Entrepreneurs

If I could speak to my younger self — and to anyone in the middle of pressure, uncertainty, or self-doubt — I would say:

👉 Don’t stress too much.
👉 Ten or fifteen years from now, it’s all going to be okay.
👉 What feels heavy today will one day make you smile.
👉 Life is beautiful — so savour it while you live it.

Because ultimately, we all want more life, more joy, and more moments like this.

Gratitude That Comes From the Heart

Thank you, IIT Madras, for gifting us a reunion that rekindled hearts, strengthened bonds, and reminded us of what truly matters.
Here’s to old friendships, new memories, and a lifetime of learning and living joyfully. ❤️