Mukesh Ambani, the Chairman of Reliance Industries and also the richest man on the planet, gave ₹151 crore to the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai—his alma mater, as a symbolic gesture of ‘Guru Dakshina’ to his mentor, the late Professor Man Mohan Sharma.
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A Historic Gesture
On June 6, 2025, the date when the launch of Professor Sharma’s biography, “The Divine Scientist”, at ICT’s Pidilite Hall took place announcement Ambani made that his ₹151 crore donation is the biggest ever that the institution has got, thus being the most significant educational endowments in India’s recent history.
Ambani made it clear that all money was given without conditions and that the purpose of this donation is to enable ICT to strengthen its research potential, facilities, and student support services. The money, in his view, was the implementation of Professor Sharma’s dream and the promise given to continue the support of the scientific excellence.
A Bond of Respect and Legacy
Ambani recounted his memorable academic trip whilst attending Professor Sharma’s lecture in the 1970s which was very influential on his future. He admitted that his father, Dhirubhai Ambani, and Professor Sharma were the main characters who innovated and educated the scientific and entrepreneurial side of his personality.
“Professor Sharma is my teacher, but he also is the father of education in the country — a ‘Rashtra Guru’. This is my small gift ‘Guru Dakshina’ to a person whose words are still my guide,” said Ambani during the occasion.
Impact on Education and Research
A donation of ₹151 crore is definitely expected to cover a range of initiatives at ICT, such as: Research in chemical and energy sciences of the highest level Upgrading infrastructure and modernization of labs Offering scholarships to students and providing faculty development Programs of new innovation and entrepreneurship Such a major donation is likely to raise ICT’s status in the world higher and also be the source of the necessary resources for it to foster the next generation of Indian scientists and engineers.
Impact on EducatiCelebrated by Academiaon and Research
Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar, Dr. Anil Kakodkar, and Prof. G.D. Yadav, eminent personalities, were present at the occasion during which they praised both Professor Sharma’s academic qualities and Ambani’s philanthropic commitment.
Conclusion
The donation of Rs 151 crore from Mukesh Ambani is not just a demonstration of generosity but also a powerful example of returning to one’s roots and referring one’s teacher. It shows the ongoing power of education, respect, and the act of giving back to those institutions that play a crucial role in the shaping of the future.