LUCKNOW : Indian Institute of Management Lucknow concluded its annual alumni reunion, Nostalgia 2024, a vibrant three-day celebration held from 20th to 22nd December 2024. The event welcomed over 300 distinguished alumni, including graduates from the Classes of 1994, 1999, 2004, 2009, and 2014, who reunited from around the globe to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the enduring spirit of IIM Lucknow.
The event commenced with a formal inauguration ceremony featuring the traditional lamp lighting, Saraswati Vandana, and inspiring addresses by Prof. Archana Shukla, Director, and Prof. Yash Daultani, Chairperson, Alumni Affairs, IIM Lucknow. On the first day, alumni were given a guided campus tour, providing an opportunity to revisit familiar landmarks and relive cherished memories from their time at the institute.
Welcoming the alumni, Prof. Archana Shukla remarked, “We have only one life, and it is up to us to live it with purpose and passion. As we celebrate 40 remarkable years of IIM Lucknow, we take pride in honouring the outstanding achievements of our alumni, who have reached great heights and made their mark in various fields. Our alumni have reached remarkable echelons of leadership, creating an incredible impact across domains. As we look forward to our golden jubilee, initiatives like the alumni lecture series deepen this bond, offering an opportunity for them to give back and reconnect with their roots—a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of this institution.”
On the second day, alumni returned to the classroom for a specially curated session led by Prof. R.K. Srivastava. The nostalgic experience was enriched by a quiz designed to capture the academic spirit of their time at the institute.
The highlight of the day was the “re-graduation ceremony”, where alumni donned convocation robes once again, standing united in testament to their enduring connection with IIM Lucknow.
Reflecting on the event, Prof. Yash Daultani, Chairperson, Alumni Affairs, IIM Lucknow, said, “Nostalgia plays a vital role in reconnecting our over 14,000 graduates, fostering a strong sense of community and shared memories.” President of the Alumni Association, Prof. Vineet S. Chauhan, reflected on the association’s remarkable journey, saying, “From its humble beginnings in 1993, the Alumni Association has grown to an impressive scale, with over 800 students graduating annually across diverse disciplines, exemplifying our enduring success and global impact.”
The afternoon featured a grand alumni-faculty lunch and “Sangram 2.0,” a lively series of games and tele matches that fostered friendly competition and teamwork. The day concluded with a Bollywood-themed gala dinner, complete with a red-carpet welcome, photo opportunities, and the high-energy “Razzle Dazzle” dance party, creating unforgettable memories.
Sharing her experience, Ms. Vaishali Bhatt, Alumnus, Class of 1994, IIM Lucknow, said, “It feels great to be back at IIM Lucknow, reconnecting with old friends and batchmates. I had the chance to meet some of my batchmates after over 28 years, which was truly special. It is wonderful to see the tremendous development at IIM Lucknow, both academically and in terms of infrastructure. I am also looking forward to exploring the city and trying its local cuisines while cherishing these fond memories.”
The final day of the event began with spirited sports activities, including cricket, football, and volleyball matches, which saw enthusiastic participation from the alumni. For those interested in exploring Lucknow, guided tours provided an opportunity to experience the city’s rich cultural landmarks, shopping hubs, and Awadhi cuisine.
The reunion concluded with a farewell ceremony, featuring the announcement of Batch Wars winners. Alumni departed with a renewed sense of connection to their alma mater and a shared vision for the future.
Sharing his experience of reliving cherished memories, Mr. Bhaskar Subramanian, Alumnus, Class of 1994, IIM Lucknow, said, “Even with all the changes in our lives, one thing remains constant—the bond we share. Back then, we were a close-knit group under one roof, and now, though scattered across the globe, we carry pieces of those treasured moments in our hearts. Returning to IIM Lucknow is always a special experience—the vibe here is truly unmatched.”
Nostalgia 2024 served as a platform for alumni to relive their IIM Lucknow journey, celebrate their collective achievements, and envision the future. The event underscored the institute’s commitment to fostering lifelong relationships with its alumni while creating an enduring legacy of excellence.
