Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries and a prominent Indian industrialist, recently donated ₹151 crore (approximately $18.3 million USD) to the Mumbai-based Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT). This generous contribution was made in memory of his mentor, Professor Man Mohan Sharma, whose influence profoundly shaped Ambani's career and worldview.
Business: Mukesh Ambani, one of India's leading industrialists, has donated ₹151 crore to the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai. This donation serves as a tribute to Professor Man Mohan Sharma, whose guidance significantly impacted Ambani's career path. On this occasion, he also explained his reasons for choosing ICT over IIT-Bombay.
ICT Receives its Largest-Ever Donation
Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries, announced a donation of ₹151 crore to the Mumbai-based Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT). This represents the largest individual contribution in the institute's history. The announcement was made during the launch of the book, 'The Divine Scientist,' authored by Anita Patil. This book chronicles the life of Professor Man Mohan Sharma, a renowned chemical engineering expert and recipient of the Padma Vibhushan award.
Donation as a 'Guru Dakshina'
Ambani referred to Professor Man Mohan Sharma as his "Rashtra Guru" (national teacher), stating that the donation to ICT was made at the professor's behest. He explained that Professor Sharma's request was akin to a command, recalling, "'Mukesh, you should do something significant for ICT.' Today, I am immensely proud to announce this contribution in his honor."
He described ICT as a "sacred temple," the foundation of his education. Ambani is an alumnus of ICT, when it was known as UDCT (University Department of Chemical Technology).
Why not IIT-Bombay?
During the event, Ambani reminisced about choosing UDCT over prestigious institutions like IIT-Bombay. He attributed this decision to Professor Man Mohan Sharma's teaching methodology and inspiring personality.
He recalled, "After listening to Professor Sharma's first lecture, I realized he was not just an ordinary teacher, but an 'alchemist.' He didn't transform metals, but minds." Ambani further stated that Sharma possessed a unique ability to convert curiosity into knowledge, knowledge into commercial value, and that value into enduring wisdom.
ICT's Background and Contributions
ICT, formerly known as UDCT, was established in 1933 by the University of Bombay. It received deemed university status in 2008 and was renamed ICT. The institute is considered a leader in chemical engineering and pharmaceutical research in India. It has produced numerous scientists, industrialists, and academics who have played a crucial role in the nation's industrial development.
Professor Man Mohan Sharma's Contributions
Professor Sharma is regarded as one of India's most respected chemical engineers. He has received numerous national and international awards, including the Padma Vibhushan. His teaching style and scientific approach strengthened India's chemical industry both academically and industrially. Ambani honored him as his "Rashtra Guru," stating that his influence on ICT will remain enduring.
