Heritage day was celebrated at IIT-Madras, marking the anniversary of the institute’s Heritage Centre. The centre, which houses a repository of material of historical significance for the institute, was established nine years ago on March 3. Displaying exhibits like photographs, documents, publications, paintings, and other memorabilia, it traces the growth of the premier institution since its inception in 1956.
Primarily patronised by alumni and visitors, the centre is looking to digitise all its material in the next couple of months. Kumaran Sathasivam, an IIT-M alumnus in charge of the centre, said, “ Once we digitise our records, we will be able to offer a more exciting set-up with electronic screens, audio visual content and permanent exhibits."
86-year-old R. Natarajan, the first registrar of the institute, said, “It is the natural heritage that remains the most striking aspect of this place.”
Two heritage trails have been identified by the centre within the campus. Historian S. Muthiah spoke of the importance of cataloguing the heritage of institutions, as an integral part of the city’s past.
