Golden reunion: Shibpur 1975 batch gifts Rs. 20 lakh to alma mater—GetBengal Story
Fifty years ago, they were just students under the shade of Bakultala — laughing, dreaming, and shaping ideas. Today, as proud alumni of IIEST Shibpur, the 1975 batch has come together to gift Rs. 20 lakh for Bakultala’s beautification and the creation of smart classrooms.
50 years back in 1975, a group of young students at Bengal Engineering College, Shibpur, often gathered beneath the shade of bakul trees. They spent the time sipping tea, sharing laughter, exchanging ideas, and even solving tough scientific puzzles under that tree. That special zone, fondly called Bakultala, became more than just a meeting spot; rather, it stood as a symbol of memory and friendship.
Five decades later, those same students, now accomplished alumni of the institute, today known as the Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (IIEST), Shibpur, have returned to honour that bond. On the golden anniversary of their graduation, the 1975 batch has gifted their alma mater Rs. 20 lakh for the beautification of Bakultala and the creation of smart classrooms.
The initiative saw enthusiastic contributions from alumni across India and abroad. While voluntary donations raised nearly Rs. 14 lakh. It is expected that more contributions are on the way to elevate the space which once elevated futures.
Nil Ratan Bandyopadhyay, from the 1975 batch and a former professor at the institute, said that most alumni candidates across the country and abroad supported voluntary donations, which resulted in an amount of Rs. 14 lakh. In addition, he said that Jayanta Sur, the Director of Sur Iron and Steel Company, was also their batchmate and contributed Rs. 6 lakh from the company's CSR fund.
Of the total contribution, about Rs. 12-13 lakh will be used to develop Bakultala’s landscape and infrastructure, while the remaining will help establish at least two smart classrooms in the new administrative building. If more support comes in, the plan may expand to three classrooms — a true blend of heritage and modern learning.
IIEST Director, Prof. VMSR Murthy, warmly acknowledged the gesture. He assured that the contribution shall be utilized with care, honouring the trust and love the alumni have shown for their institution,” he said.
This gesture by the alumni carries the timeless essence of homecoming, returning to one’s roots, revisiting shared memories, and nurturing the next generation. Bakultala, once a silent witness to youthful dreams, now prepares to bloom again, this time, as a symbol of heritage, knowledge, and gratitude.
