On the passing of Mr. Susim Mukul Datta
There are legacies that grow silently, far from the spotlight, but shape institutions with profound and lasting impact. Mr. Susim Mukul Datta, who chaired the Board of Governors of IIM Bangalore from 1995 to 2005, was a custodian of such transformation.
His decade-long tenure coincided with a pivotal arc in the Institute’s evolution. It was under his stewardship that IIMB made several bold departures, such as the launch of NSRCEL to foster entrepreneurship, the Centre for Public Policy to influence evidence-based governance, and one-of-a-kind programmes such as the PGSEM and PGPPM that expanded the boundaries of management education for professionals in government, IT, and industry.
Mr. Datta brought to the Boardroom what only a few leaders possess. A long view of institutional growth, nurtured in purpose, design and patience. Those of us at IIMB who had the privilege of his guidance remember a leader who was always measured in tone, formidable in insight, humble in manner and unfailing in his sense of integrity.
Beyond IIMB, his contribution to Indian business is the stuff of corporate history. As Chairman of Hindustan Unilever, he helped the company navigate the turbulence and opportunity of economic liberalization. His vision led to defining moves such as the TOMCO acquisition, the scaling of Wheel, and the seamless merger of several legacy brands. He stood at the helm as the nation transformed, guiding the institutions he served to meet the moment and the future.
The IIM Bangalore community mourns the passing of Mr. Datta and extends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Prof. Rishikesha T. Krishnan
Director, IIM Bangalore
On the passing of Mr. Susim Mukul Datta
There are legacies that grow silently, far from the spotlight, but shape institutions with profound and lasting impact. Mr. Susim Mukul Datta, who chaired the Board of Governors of IIM Bangalore from 1995 to 2005, was a custodian of such transformation.
His decade-long tenure coincided with a pivotal arc in the Institute’s evolution. It was under his stewardship that IIMB made several bold departures, such as the launch of NSRCEL to foster entrepreneurship, the Centre for Public Policy to influence evidence-based governance, and one-of-a-kind programmes such as the PGSEM and PGPPM that expanded the boundaries of management education for professionals in government, IT, and industry.
Mr. Datta brought to the Boardroom what only a few leaders possess. A long view of institutional growth, nurtured in purpose, design and patience. Those of us at IIMB who had the privilege of his guidance remember a leader who was always measured in tone, formidable in insight, humble in manner and unfailing in his sense of integrity.
Beyond IIMB, his contribution to Indian business is the stuff of corporate history. As Chairman of Hindustan Unilever, he helped the company navigate the turbulence and opportunity of economic liberalization. His vision led to defining moves such as the TOMCO acquisition, the scaling of Wheel, and the seamless merger of several legacy brands. He stood at the helm as the nation transformed, guiding the institutions he served to meet the moment and the future.
The IIM Bangalore community mourns the passing of Mr. Datta and extends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Prof. Rishikesha T. Krishnan
Director, IIM Bangalore