Heart Beats of SPCE: Part 5
Hon. Margaret Thatcher inaugurates SPJIMR
As the next academic year began, some pressing issues in the hostel demanded immediate attention. At the request of hostel students, I took on the responsibility of Hostel General Secretary to address these challenges.
During this time, I developed cordial relations with Bhavans College students and their representatives. Our discussions often took place in the canteen, under the banyan tree in the campus, after lectures, and sometimes in their hostel late at night.
Established in 1938 by Hon. K.M. Munshi who served as a member of the Constituent Assembly and thereafter Minister for Agriculture and Food, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, has a rich legacy. Bhavan’s is located in Andheri West, Mumbai on a sprawling 45-acre campus in the heart of the city. Initially, Andheri campus housed Sardar Patel College of Engineering and Bhavans Arts and Commerce College on it. In 1981, the prestigious S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) was inaugurated, marking a significant milestone in the Bhavan’s history. At that time, Hon. Dharamsy Khatao served as the president, and Advocate Nani Palkhivala held the position of executive chairman of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.
Hon. Khatao was a prominent figure in India’s industrial history, and was part of the Khatao Group, oldest Indian Business conglomerate.
Ad. Nani Palkhivala was a towering personality, renowned internationally for his contributions to law and economics. His association with Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan added immense prestige to the institution, as he was not only a legal luminary but also a passionate advocate for education and cultural values. He played a pivotal role in landmark cases such as the Kesavananda Bharati case, which established the Basic Structure Doctrine of the Indian Constitution.
The leadership of Hon. Khatao, Ad. Nani Palakhivala, along with others played pivotal role in shaping the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s initiatives and fostering its growth.
The inauguration of the S.P. Jain Institute was graced by the presence of Hon. Margaret Thatcher, then Prime Minister of Great Britain. Known as the "Iron Lady," she was celebrated for her transformative leadership and unwavering determination.
The trustees and administrators of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, esteemed academicians and business leaders from Mumbai and beyond graced the occasion.
The dignitaries, in their speeches, reflected a vision of academic excellence and global leadership. They also shared insights into the importance of education in fostering innovation and collaboration.
The cultural performances added a touch of Indian heritage to the prestigious gathering.
Witnessing such prominent dignitaries up close was a proud moment for all of us, and as a student representative, I had the privilege of volunteering at this historic event.
This experience brought me into contact with Members of Bhavan’s Management Committee, whose guidance and support proved invaluable during my tenure as Hostel General Secretary.
Reflecting on these moments, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities to learn, contribute, and grow alongside such inspiring individuals and institutions.
Dr. Mahendra Ingale, Former Principal @ Pune, March 25, 2025
