• SPJIMR
  • Annual Convocation 2025

“Your education doesn’t end, it begins now as you step out into this real world. In a world reshaped by disruption, we need leaders who are not just competent but compassionate, not just driven but principled, committed to ethical decisions and the common good. Let this be your calling: to lead with purpose, grow continuously, and make a meaningful difference.” advised Mr. Nitin Paranjpe in his commencement speech.

The Annual Convocation Ceremony celebrated the achievements of 800+ participants from SPJIMR’s Class of 2025, representing eight diverse programmes — PGDM, PGDM (BM), PGPM, PGEMP, PGPDM, PGPGM, PGPMBM, and FPM. The ceremony opened with the customary convocation procession, followed by the national anthem and invocation prayers. Mr. Deepak Parekh, Chairman of the SPJIMR Governing Council, welcomed guests and introduced the Chief Guest, Mr. Nitin Paranjpe, Non-Executive Chairman of Hindustan Unilever Limited and a respected voice in global leadership and innovation.

Dean Varun Nagaraj addressed the gathering with reflections on SPJIMR’s milestones over the past year and spoke about the responsibility of future leaders in today’s increasingly complex world. He urged graduates to revisit SPJIMR’s mission, not just as students, but now as professionals ready to make their mark. “Don’t think of yourself as a finished product,” he said, “You’re a work in progress. Value-based growth means striving to improve, not just for your own gain, but in ways that uplift those around you. Wise innovation is important because the world you’re entering offers no ready-made answers. To succeed, you will need creativity, humility, and the courage to act with wisdom and compassion.”

In his commencement speech, Mr. Nitin Paranjpe shared insights drawn from his rich leadership journey, touching on the importance of responsible leadership, power of mindset, and the sense of purpose. “Success doesn’t come from chasing the best job,” he said, “It comes from bringing the best version of yourself to whatever you choose to do.” He encouraged graduates to:

  • Stay committed to becoming their best selves
  • Bring the right mindset to every role they take on
  • Find and stay true to a deeper purpose that can guide them through change and uncertainty

He concluded with a call for leadership that India needs now more than ever—ethical, purpose-led, and compassionate—especially as the country aspires to achieve developed nation status by 2047.

Families and friends alongside SPJIMR faculty members and professionals cheered enthusiastically as graduates received their certificates and honours. The ceremony ended with the iconic hat toss marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. The Class of 2025 now joins a vibrant network of over 18,000 SPJIMR alumni across the globe. We wish them every success as they step forward to lead with purpose, integrity, and impact.

Meet our chief guest

Mr. Nitin Paranjpe

Mr. Nitin Paranjpe

Non-Executive Chairman of Hindustan Unilever Limited

Mr. Nitin Paranjpe, Non-Executive Chairman of Hindustan Unilever Limited, is widely recognised for his transformative leadership within Unilever and his long-standing contributions to the company’s global growth. With over a decade of experience on the Unilever Leadership Executive, he served as the company’s Chief Transformation and Chief People Officer from 2022 to June 2024, spearheading initiatives that drove organisational change and fostered future capabilities. Prior to this, Mr. Paranjpe was the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Unilever, where he successfully delivered global P&L results, enhanced synergies across business functions, and accelerated the company’s digitisation efforts.

Relive the moments

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