During a nostalgic 25-year reunion last weekend, the Y2K batch of the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) embarked on an unexpected journey of discovery, exploring the vast green wealth of their own alma mater. While renowned for academic rigor, the campus revealed its other, often overlooked, legacy: a thriving natural ecosystem.
A Walk Through Forgotten Green Corridors
One of the central events of the reunion celebrations was a dedicated tree walk on December 20. Organized by the alumni, the activity aimed to reconnect the batch with the campus's environmental heritage. Bekxy Kuriakose, an alumna, expressed a common sentiment, noting that despite spending two intensive years studying there, most graduates were largely unaware of the approximately 30,000 trees that share the campus grounds. "We were too busy with our studies back then," she remarked.
The walk was led by Suchi Govindarajan, a well-known nature guide, who expertly unveiled the vibrant biodiversity hidden in plain sight. Alumni were captivated by intricate ecological stories, such as the symbiotic relationship between the fig fruit and the fig wasp. The visual spectacle of sky-high bougainvilleas, the brilliant red-orange blooms of African tulip trees, and the majestic presence of ancient banyan trees left a lasting impression.
Surprises in the Foliage and a Lasting Tribute
The exploration went beyond common knowledge, with participants learning new facts about sandalwood trees and discovering the unique 'octopus trees.' A moment of pure delight came with the sighting of an elusive white-cheeked barbet hidden within the foliage. Bekxy described the experience as less of a textbook lesson and more of a narrative journey, emphasizing how trees are deeply woven into human history, mythology, migration, and literature.
To mark the poignant reunion and honor departed batchmates, the Y2K batch performed a meaningful act of dedication. They dedicated a tree on the campus and took time to felicitate the horticulture and gardening staff, recognizing their crucial role in maintaining IIMB's green identity over the decades.
An Architectural Vision Rooted in Nature
The walk also revived a powerful philosophical vision behind the campus's design. Recalling the words of the campus's visionary architect, B.V. Doshi, Bekxy shared his timeless principle: ‘No building should be taller than a tree.’ This guiding ethos, conceived during the campus's design phase, stands validated even today. True to Doshi's vision, not a single building on the IIMB campus surpasses the height of its trees, a testament to a enduring commitment to harmony with nature.
The reunion, therefore, transformed from a simple gathering into a profound reconnection—not just with old friends, but with the living, breathing green heart of the institution that shaped them.
