A Lasting Tribute: IIM Visakhapatnam Celebrates the Life and Legacy of Ms. Vani Row
The Indian Institute of Management Visakhapatnam (IIMV) paid heartfelt tribute to the late Ms. Vani Row on her birth anniversary by organizing the Vani Row Memorial Address at its permanent campus. Held annually on August 6, the event celebrates her remarkable life, legacy, and contributions, continuing to inspire future leaders.
A native of Visakhapatnam and a distinguished alumna of IIM Ahmedabad, Ms. Vani Row was a globally respected consultant and investment banker who left an indelible mark in both India and the United States before her untimely passing.
The event began with a warm welcome and tribute by Professor Kaveri Krishnan, Dean Administration, IIMV, followed by opening remarks from Professor M. Chandrasekhar, Director of IIMV. He reflected on the establishment of the Vani Row Memorial Incubation Centre, inaugurated on the same occasion last year. The Centre, made possible through a generous endowment by Dr. B. R. L. Row, father of Ms. Vani Row, currently supports over 180 startups, many of them led by women entrepreneurs, carrying forward Ms. Row’s vision of empowerment.
A particularly moving segment featured reflections from recipients of the Vani Row Memorial Gold Medal, awarded each year to the top performing woman student of the MBA program. Medalists from 2020 to 2025 shared personal accounts of how receiving the award shaped their journeys. One medalist said, "Her legacy is not just an award we receive. It is a commitment to lead with purpose." Several expressed heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Row for creating such an inspiring opportunity.
In his address, Dr. B. R. L. Row, a distinguished scientist, philanthropist, and father of Ms. Vani Row, shared how deeply touched he was by the medalists’ reflections. He recalled that when his daughter aspired to join an IIM, opportunities and encouragement for women in business education were scarce. Yet, she moved forward with courage and clarity. He added that seeing so many inspired by her legacy brings him immense happiness.
The Chief Guest, Ms. Uma Sudhindra, Member of the Board of Governors at IIMV, delivered the keynote address. Drawing from more than three decades of people focused professional experience, she offered insights on personal branding as a strategy, emphasizing the core principles of clarity, consistency, credibility, and visibility.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Professor Vijaya Bhaskar Marisetty, Dean Academics, IIMV, who reflected that Ms. Vani Row is not just a memory but a living legacy that continues to inspire and empower. Faculty, staff, students, and members of the IIMV community gathered in large numbers to celebrate the life of the late Ms. Vani Row, whose story continues to light the way.
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