By Vasantha Priya – Event Co-ordinator
‘I wish I could go back to college’ – how many of us, how many times in our lives have we said this. Can’t get those times back the way it was, but yeah, reunions are a big treat! Life changes, but the alumni of IIMB and the good old IIMB campus keep the magic alive. We saw the magic this time at Reunion ’09 where three batches the 84, 94 and 99 batches came together at the campus. Nostalgic, fun filled and a wonderful time of comradeship and togetherness – we couldn’t have asked for more!
Organizing the event I found myself running around like a headless chicken for more than a month. When the day arrived and the alumni started coming to the campus, I could feel the pulse – our alumni were all geared up to enjoy themselves to the fullest. The ‘94 batch was the first to arrive with their families. After the registration formalities, the students had something special in store for the alumni – a video from the student days of the alumni. Wide smiles, chuckles and fond reminiscence – yes, this is what we wanted! The mood was set and we were all set to go on a ride that will be cherished by the alumni forever.
The ‘94 and the 84 batches joined the party the next day. They were also taken on a nostalgic trip with the videos. While the newly arrived were enjoying the videos, the ’94 batch had a treasure hunt game to play along with their families. The younger days were back with running around the campus gathering clues and picking up little bits from their bygone days. Then it was time to head to the classrooms, now that’s some nostalgia. Batch get-togethers were arranged in the classrooms and the alumni caught up with each other. In a special session, the Director met with all the three batches and reiterated on the long lasting relationship between the institute, students and alumni.
Rip roaring laughter and fun followed with “How well you know your campus” quiz challenge organized by the students and cultural events in the evening. Singing and dancing in full josh at the DJ and camp fire, the alumni and families were reluctant to bring the day to a close. I was thankful for the good day, everything went on well and more over, everyone was happy.
The next day, the alumni played the big brother/sister role to the students – it was mentoring time. Alumni shared their real life experiences, insights and answered the curious questions of the students. Rakesh Godhwani, Head of Alumni Association had a session with the alumni speaking to them about the association activities and new initiatives that could strengthen the relationship between the alumni and the institution. The spirit of the reunion was roaring high with the inter-batch Tsepak matches that followed.
All the while when the alumni had events lined up, the families were entertained throughout with games, magic show, caricatures, face painting etc. We were happy to see that they all enjoyed their best and felt very much a part of the campus.
The reunion wound up with camp fire, DJ and music. The entire event was warm, friendly and absolutely enjoyable. Students did an amazing job by supporting the event day in and day out. Thank you, dear alumni, who came down and enjoyed every bit of it. Come again, and let’s have a ball!
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