Bright minds, bold futures: SPJIMR welcomes the PGDM, PGDM (BM) 2025–2027 batch
June 18, 2025
SPJIMR welcomed the new cohort of its PGDM and PGDM (BM) programmes with a vibrant inauguration ceremony, which marked the beginning of an intensive two-year journey for participants who will go on to shape the future of business and management.
The ceremony began with the second-year batch performing the traditional Saraswati Vandana, followed by the customary student-teacher prayers. A symbolic sapling plantation ceremony was then held, with Prof. Varun Nagaraj, Dean, SPJIMR; Prof. Renuka Kamath, Associate Dean, Full-time Programmes; and Prof. Ashita Aggarwal, Chairperson, PGDM and PGDM (BM)and Deputy Programme Chairpersons— Prof. Ajinkya Navare, and Prof. Sajit M Mathews alongside participants Utkarsha and Simran from the incoming cohort to symbolise growth and SPJIMR’s commitment to sustainability.
On legacy, learning, and leadership
In his address, Dean Nagaraj spoke of SPJIMR’s philosophy and legacy: “We honour the privilege of grooming you for your next two years to guide you to the destinations you want. And hopefully these destinations benefit not just you yourself but society at large.”
Reflecting on SPJIMR’s remarkable evolution from its humble beginnings in 1938, he highlighted SPJIMR’s achievement of the ‘triple crown‘ of international accreditations—EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA—placing the institute among an elite group of global business schools.
A fresh start and a learning mindset
Prof. Kamath encouraged participants to embrace this new chapter: “Look at this as a reset button for a new phase. Take risks; pursue what you’ve always wanted to. Learn the art of trade-offs.”
Through an interactive session, she emphasised the importance of diversity and setting aside personal biases: “Show tolerance and kindness to people who differ from you, who think differently than you. Learn, unlearn, and relearn. Just because you witnessed something in your workplace or experienced something in your personal life doesn’t mean the world operates only in that way.” In addition, she also shared valuable advice from our alumni, urging the freshers to be patient with distant relationships as they gradually learn to balance personal life with the academic rigours of an MBA.
Tools for success
Prof. Ashita offered a powerful framework built around four essential qualities—Clarity, Courage, Curiosity, and Contribution. She outlined the four “Cs” that would serve as guiding principles:
- Clarity about personal strengths — “What do you bring to the table? What makes you different?”
- Courage to follow one’s heart — “When you feel passionate about something, you invest all your efforts. Nothing seems impossible.”
- Curiosity to learn and grow — “Maintain the humility to accept that someone even younger might know more.”
- Contribution through everyday actions — “You might simply set the chairs back in place before you leave your classroom. Smaller actions create bigger differences.”
She concluded with a powerful reminder: “Character develops when nobody watches us.”
From one cohort to another
Shruti Muruganandam from the 2024–2026 batch shared her reflections: “I distinctly remember standing here a year ago, experiencing a whole host of emotions—pride, excitement, nervousness, and just a healthy dose of impostor syndrome.” She urged the new cohort to value their relationships and advised, “Your most important resources sit with you right now—your batchmates. Over these two years, they will become your family.”
Abhyudaya Sitaras shine
The Abhyudaya Sitaras delivered a thought-provoking skit on social media awareness, reflecting SPJIMR’s commitment to holistic education and social consciousness.
The ceremony concluded with faculty and staff introductions, followed by refreshments and informal networking. The participants of the 2025–2027 batch now begin their transformative journey at SPJIMR, ready to make their mark on the world of business—and beyond.