India Trip 2009_Recollections_Part VI_ Chennai & IIT Madras

Wednesday January 21st: Arrived at 5:00 AM at Tambaram. Dr. CV made sure we were ready to jump out of the train as soon as arrived at the station. Some students had an interesting experience getting out of a moving train. Took a coach and arrived at the campus IGH in a few minutes.
After the usual Yoga, we had classes in the morning, followed by a visit to the Visteon plant. The facility was quite impressive. We saw the production of compressors and climate controls. The plant used natural lighting as much as possible. The managers emphasize the philosophy of 4M - Man, Machine, Material, and Methods. Turnover was cited as a key management issue.
On the way back we stopped at the Zoo, but it was too late to take the safari. Returned to MCC campus for dinner.
Thursday January 22nd: After classes in the morning and lunch, students left for the Christ Faith Home. I took two students, SZ and ZJ and went to IIT Madras, my Alma Mater. The "Saarang" festival was underway, and as we drove to Gajendra Circle, the streets were covered with ads selling Vodaphone, Bosch, and a bunch of other firms. IIT is an impressive institution. We went to the DoMS and our hosts were very gracious. After talking to a number of faculty, Mr. Kunal, an MBA student, took us on a tour. We saw a number of interesting competitions, went to my hostel, Narmada, the Mega Mess, the new hostels. Kunal took us by the swimming pool which was very impressive. We also saw the OAT. Around 4:30 we left the IIT campus and headed back to IGH. It was a very impressive visit, and I felt like I was back home. The intellectual vibrancy of the place is infectious.
Friday January 23rd: In the morning there was a closing ceremony with the Principal and other faculty. It was a nice closing touch. Students went shopping or relaxed. I went back to IIT Madras to spend time with my good friend SN who is a HOD. SN and his wife JN fed me a good lunch and I had a wonderful time with them. Unfortunately the kids were in school at the time and I missed seeing them. Friday night was a long one, spent chatting with colleagues, and we have to get up early to catch the flight to Delhi.