A Silver Anniversary of Memories: Reflections from a heartwarming College Reunion

Last week, I had the incredible opportunity to reconnect with over 240 friends from college at our 25-year reunion at Regional Engineering College (REC) Trichy (now National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirappalli ), the largest in its long history. For two magical days, we shed the burdens of corporate leadership and public service, and even adulthood, and became the carefree 17 year olds that we once were, transported back to the vibrant days when we first met nearly three decades ago.

While the two days flew by in the blink of an eye, they left an indelible mark on all of us. As we reflect on the memories we created and the bonds we rekindled, many of us discovered deeper meanings and life lessons. Here are a few of my reflections:

1. Count Your Blessings

We began the reunion by honoring our cherished friends we’ve lost too soon. Their absence was a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the blessings we often take for granted. Simply being alive, healthy, and able to gather in person is a privilege—a gift we should never overlook.

2. Give Back

Our alma mater shaped us into who we are today, and our batch found meaningful ways to express gratitude. We collectively donated one of the largest contributions in our institution’s history and pledged to support a new entrepreneurial fund and mentorship program.

Equally inspiring was the dedication of the reunion organizers—our very own batchmates—who worked tirelessly for over a year to plan every detail. From rediscovering old photographs to creating a yearbook website and podcasts exclusively for the event, hosting trivia games, and choreographing skits, they prioritized community over personal pursuits. Their selflessness reminded us of the joy of giving back, not just in money but in time and effort.

3. Pursue Your True Passion

Though we graduated as engineers, many of us followed unexpected paths after college. One batchmate became a celebrated music composer, now inventing India’s first music hardware for creative expression. Another persevered through five attempts at India’s rigorous civil services exam to achieve her dream and now serves as a high-ranking public servant.

And then there were the surprises—a quiet batchmate who is now a VIP karaoke singer, gaining acclaim on Smule. Back in college, we never knew these hidden talents existed. Their journeys reminded us that it’s never too late to chase our dreams.

4. Embrace Diversity

Our college life was institutionally designed to be a melting pot of cultures, with students from every state in India and hostels that reflected this diversity. Walk its hallways, you will hear no less than 5 different languages being spoken! At first, the differences felt daunting, but by the end of four years, the enduring friendships that we built transcended language, geography, and culture.

This reunion reaffirmed that embracing diversity creates richer and more meaningful connections. It equips us with a broader understanding and appreciation of the world around us. Whether in organizations, institutions, or communities, diversity fosters better outcomes and stronger bonds.

5. Nurture Friendships

Twenty-five years is a long time, and life often pulls us in different directions. Yet, our reunion brought together people from across India and from every continent, except Antarctica! Some even took up to five flights just to be there!

For two days, we laughed, drank, sang and danced like we were back in our college hostels. As the reunion drew to a close, we realized how much we missed each other and vowed not to wait another 25 years to reconnect. In today’s digital age, staying in touch is easier than ever—it’s just a matter of making it a priority.

Now, as I write this from Bangkok during a family vacation, I feel immense gratitude and joy. The reunion was not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane—it was a celebration of life, love, and the enduring power of friendship.

Here’s to a fantastic holiday season and a New Year filled with blessings, connection, and purpose!

Happy New Year!