Ahmedabad University Marks 15 Years of Shared Legacy with National Award-winning Director Rajkumar Hirani

National Film Award winner Rajkumar Hirani, a filmmaker, director, and producer, shared his ideas on the filmmaking process, the art of storytelling and the role of education in society and films at the 15th Foundation Day of Ahmedabad University, celebrated on February 26, 2024, at the University campus. Hirani was in conversation with Abhijat Joshi, screenwriter, director, producer, and editor, who collaborated with him on four films, and Sarthak Bagchi, Assistant Professor at Ahmedabad University. The quindecennial celebrations also coincide with the foundation of Ahmedabad city, which has been celebrated for over six centuries.

“Today, I saw an example of how the approach to education should be in terms of exchange of knowledge, interdisciplinary and experiential learning, and building a place where people can have options, especially for 17- or 18-year-olds who often don't know what to do. Our childhood gave us limited options, from choosing between science, commerce, and arts, and to being stuck in jobs in the selected field. Studying at a place where one can choose subjects they want to research and, in a few years, figure out what they want to do is a great approach,” said Hirani during his visit to the University.

Vice Chancellor Professor Pankaj Chandra took everyone down the memory lane, reminiscing the 15 years of hard work and unwavering dedication to education and research that led to the building of Ahmedabad University. He reflected on how the University has strengthened its stance on academic excellence, research advancements, community engagement, and societal impact.

Since its inception in 2009, Ahmedabad University has transformed the education landscape by becoming a liberal education-driven research institution, emphasising interdisciplinarity, experiential learning, and research thinking.

The University's journey of 15 years witnessed the inception of six schools, seven centres, and several recreational spaces, solidifying its reputation as a hub for academic excellence, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. 

“Ahmedabad University will surely emerge as one of the most impactful research universities in this country in times to come, and will recreate and reimagine education in a way where young people learn to contribute to the larger society,” said Vice Chancellor Professor Pankaj Chandra.

The celebrations concluded with the Chairman's Awards ceremony, a momentous occasion where stakeholders across the University – faculty, students, and staff – were recognised for their exemplary service and innovative contributions. The University also honoured individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to institution-building over the past decade.