RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra Urges IIT Kanpur Graduates to Embrace Lifelong Learning, Question Norms, and Uphold Virtuous Leadership

At the 58th convocation ceremony of IIT Kanpur held on Monday, Reserve Bank of India Governor and distinguished alumnus Sanjay Malhotra delivered a heartfelt and inspiring address to the graduating Class of 2025.

Reflecting on his formative years at the prestigious institution and a career spanning over three decades, Malhotra shared four fundamental life principles that, he said, had guided his personal and professional journey.

These principles—questioning the status quo, committing to continuous learning, striving to become trustworthy leaders, and embracing virtuous karma—formed the cornerstone of his address to the new graduates.

Standing before a hall of young minds filled with hope and ambition, Malhotra began his speech with a nostalgic recollection of his student life at IIT Kanpur.

“This institution changed the course of my life and reshaped the way I think,” he said. “I still have vivid memories of my days on this campus—so much has changed over the years.

I’ve seen that transformation not just in the institute, but within myself as well.”

He fondly remembered the simplicity of campus life in earlier decades, drawing laughter and a sense of camaraderie from the audience as he reminisced about buying samosas for just 35 paisa and cold drinks for a mere ₹2.25—an anecdote that drew a contrast between the simplicity of the past and the fast-paced world the students are stepping into today.

From these memories, he transitioned into the central message of his speech, drawing from 36 years of experience across various roles, including his work at the United Nations and in public administration.

Malhotra said he had distilled his career into four core lessons—lessons he hoped would guide the graduates as they now venture into the wider world beyond the institute.

First, he emphasized the importance of challenging conventional thinking and questioning the status quo. Recalling his tenure with international organizations, he said that it was his constant willingness to question established systems that led to meaningful reforms and improved efficiency.

“Do not accept things as they are simply because they have always been that way,” he urged. “Progress begins when we dare to ask, ‘Why not something better?’”

Second, Malhotra spoke passionately about the need for lifelong learning. In a world where technological advancements are occurring at a breakneck pace, he warned that even the most cutting-edge knowledge learned today may become obsolete tomorrow.

“The speed at which technology evolves is astounding. You must adopt self-learning as a way of life. It is not enough to rely solely on what you’ve learned here—your journey of acquiring knowledge must continue long after you leave these gates.”

In the third part of his address, he encouraged students to become leaders who are not just competent but trustworthy and ethical. Leadership, he said, is more than a position—it is about integrity, accountability, and earning the faith of those one serves.

“Your credibility will define your influence. Be the kind of leader whose decisions are grounded in fairness, whose actions inspire confidence, and whose presence brings calm and clarity.”

Finally, Malhotra called on graduates to walk the path of “virtuous karma.” Borrowing from Indian philosophical traditions, he explained that karma is not merely about actions, but about the intentions and values behind those actions.

“It is the path you choose, not just the destination, that defines who you become. Choose your path with purpose, with morality, and with humility,” he said.

He encouraged students to live lives steeped in service, humility, character, and self-reflection—qualities that would guide them even when technical skills fall short.

Throughout his speech, Malhotra repeatedly returned to the idea that life beyond IIT Kanpur would present both opportunities and challenges.

He advised students to approach the future with curiosity, resilience, and the courage to continually ask difficult questions—not only of the world around them but of themselves.

As the ceremony concluded, Malhotra’s words left a deep impression on the graduates, faculty, and families in attendance. His message—rich with wisdom, humility, and insight—reminded the students that while academic brilliance opens doors, it is values, character, and a commitment to lifelong growth that will truly shape their destinies.