The chairman of the country’s most valuable company Reliance Industries, studied at the institute.
New Delhi: One of the most richest men in the world Mukesh Ambani has recently donated a hopping whopping amount of Rs 151 crore to the prestigious Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), making it the biggest donation in the history of the institute. Notably, the chairman of the country’s most valuable company – Reliance Industries – studied at the institute. Earlier known as the University Department of Chemical Technology (UDCT), the ICT was established in the year 1933 by the University of Bombay. It was given the status of a deemed university in 2008 and subsequently renamed as ICT.
Ambani announced the donation at the launch of Anita Patil’s book ‘The Divine Scientist’. The book is based on the life of Padma Vibhushan Professor Man Mohan Sharma. Many students consider him to be the greatest guru of Indian chemical engineering. While speaking about Guru Dakshina, the Reliance Chairman discussed several topics and announced a donation of Rs 151 crore to the institute at the behest of Sharma.
“When they tell us something, we just listen. They told me, ‘Mukesh, you have to do something big for ICT’, and I am happy to announce that it is for Professor Sharma,” Ambani said.
Why Did You Not Go To IIT-Bombay
Responding to the question, why did you not go to IIT-Bombay? Ambani stated, “Visiting the UDCT campus always feels like visiting a sacred temple. Professor Sharma, I regard you as my most respected Guru, my guide and source of inspiration.”
He recalled his fond memories of the institute and also praised Patil, saying, “It is a very difficult task to write the life of a great man like Sharma.” I chose UDCT over IIT -Bombay.”
Ambani stated that Sharma’s inaugural lecture solidified his belief in Sharma’s exceptional abilities. He described Sharma as a transformative figure, capable of converting curiosity into practical knowledge, then into profitable ventures, and finally into enduring wisdom. Ambani attributed major growth within India’s chemical sector to Sharma bestowing upon him the title of “Rashtra Guru” (national teacher).
