Prof. T.T. Narendran: A Journey of Music, Academics, and Reflections on IIT Madras
Prof. T.T. Narendran, an eminent faculty member at IIT Madras, much-loved by generations of students and affectionately called as ‘Mama’, shares his personal account of a remarkable journey that started with music, and led to a flourishing career in academia at IITM. From his initial interactions with undergraduate students through his journey as a faculty member and his musings on the changing landscape of education, Prof. Narendran's story is one of passion, dedication, and adaptation. Listen to him share his experiences here.
Early Years and Academic Beginnings
Prof. Narendran describes his entry into IIT as a smooth transition. Primarily joining for post-graduation studies, he soon found himself engaged with the undergraduate students, thanks to his love for music. Through participating in inter-hostel entertainment competitions and performing film songs, Prof. Narendran built connections and established himself as a friendly presence on campus.
From Student to Faculty
As Prof. Narendran pursued his studies, he soon found himself transitioning into a faculty role even before completing his PhD. This sudden shift posed a unique challenge as he went from being shoulder tapping friends with his students to earning their respect as a faculty member. However, his friendly disposition and ability to establish rapport helped bridge the gap, allowing him to become a valuable figure within the campus community.
Academic Adventures and the Birth of an MBA Program
With over 20 years of experience at IIT, Prof. Narendran saw significant changes in the academic landscape. From being a part of the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences to spearheading the establishment of an MBA program, he witnessed the evolution of the institution. The challenges and hard work involved in curriculum planning and the eventual success of the program highlighted the dedication and innovation of the faculty at IIT.
Changes in Education and the Role of Classroom Instruction
Reflecting on his teaching experiences, Prof. Narendran discusses the evolving methods of disseminating knowledge. With technology playing an increasingly significant role, he raises questions about the necessity and effectiveness of traditional classroom instruction. While some subjects still benefit from in-person teaching, he believes that videos, films, and assignments can provide a more engaging and practical learning experience. However, he also notes the need for a mature student body capable of adjusting to such a setup.
BIO:
T.T. Narendran most popularly known as MAMA endeared well to student’s community across generations. Professor joined IIT Madras in 1971 and obtained his PhD in Industrial Engineering. He then joined the services of the Institute in 1976 as a Lecturer. Later, he was an Associate Professor and a Professor in 1991 and 1995 respectively.
He has exemplified academic versatility and his career in the institute began in the early, post-German assistance, pre-computer technology stages of development, when many academic processes were beginning to be defined. During his career, he has guided many research scholars and published more than a hundred research articles in reputed Journals and prestigious conferences. His papers have been cited by the most prolific authors in these disciplines and he was among their top 10 contributors worldwide over a decade.
Professor TT Narendran has proved himself an exemplary teacher who has enthusiastically offered courses outside his academic moorings and the humour that characterised him, the power of bringing smile in every student. His name will always be associated with the courses on Operations Research, Simulation, and Production Management.
Professor also stands out among his great contributions to our Institute like pioneering the PGPEX VLM multi – Institute partnership program and he led the conception, design, launch, and offering of the MBA Programme.
He has donned several Leadership and Mentorship hats and is calm, friendly, and helpful attitude towards all. He is known for his spontaneous humour involving puns in multiple languages and is the backbone of the music club which hosted all India’s great classical musicians and instrumentalists. It can be truly said of him, “If ever there was a teacher whom every student would love to be with, it is him! “
