Chitrakshi Kumar

Indian Institute of Management Bangalore

“Balancing creativity with rationality, dedicated to continual learning.”

Hometown: Delhi, India

Fun Fact About Yourself: I enjoy sharing trivia, studying fashion, and exploring intertextuality in films.

Undergraduate School and Major: School of Planning and Architecture Delhi, Masters in planning with Specialization in Urban Planning. Bachelor of Architecture, School of Planning & Architecture

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Design Management, Godrej Properties Limited

Aside from your classmates, what was the key part of IIM Bangalore’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? Coming from a specialized background, I sought a business school that values diversity and versatility in its students. IIM Bangalore’s diverse cohort and expansive curriculum convinced me it would be the ideal environment for an architect-urban planner like me. My goal was to cultivate a holistic profile which builds on my experience and profile. EPGP’s program’s structure and the collaborative learning environment make it an ideal place for someone looking to bridge the gap between specialized skills and broader business acumen.

The admissions cutoff of a minimum of 5 years of experience also ensures that students relate better to classroom teachings. This requirement fosters a deeper connection between theoretical knowledge and practical application making the learning process even more enriching and relevant.

What has been your favorite course or extracurricular activity at IIM Bangalore? What has been the most important lesson that you have learned from it? As someone who never saw themselves as an entrepreneur initially, I found unexpected inspiration in the Entrepreneurial Management course, which quickly became my favorite. It taught me that even the smallest problem holds potential, every idea deserves exploration, and resilience is key to success. Embracing failure, much like successful startups, is crucial for achieving greatness, both for personal growth and professional achievement.

The Entrepreneurial Management course cultivated my creative problem-solving abilities, emphasizing the importance of turning ideas into actionable plans. Whether or not I pursue an entrepreneurial path, I’ve come to understand that innovative thinking, supported by strategic planning, is indispensable in any business venture.

What makes Bengaluru such as great place to earn your MBA? Having worked and lived in Bengaluru for the last few years, I have come to appreciate the city’s vibrant culture. With numerous major business houses located here, the industry access is exceptional. Bengaluru’s work culture is unique among Indian cities, promoting learning and growth for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. This made it an ideal place for me to earn my MBA.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: Several milestones stand out in my career, with securing GATE Rank 19 and earning a scholarship to pursue a master’s at the School of Planning and Architecture being particularly significant. After completing my master’s, I joined Godrej Properties, South Zone, in Design Strategy. As the youngest member of my team, I led my first project, which involved developing over 1,500 residences and earned the Best Design Initiative award. With the support of my managers, I led Design Management for the project, overseeing everything from technical due diligence to construction documentation. This challenging yet rewarding experience allowed me to work with cross-functional teams of internal and external stakeholders, significantly honing my interpersonal and leadership skills. It reinforced my confidence in my ability to perform as an efficient business manager, adept at navigating complex demands.

Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far: Coming from a non-quantitative background, I initially worried about keeping up with the course curriculum and contributing to class discussions. Terms 1 and 2 have been intense, and returning to studying after a five-year break was a challenge. However, I quickly adapted and was able to contribute effectively in this short period.

The coursework has been eye-opening and, in just three months, my learning curve has increased exponentially. As the course progresses, my understanding improves substantially, boosting my confidence in handling quantitative aspects and reaffirming my commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement.

What is your class’s favorite hangout away from school? Why do you gather there? The 100-acre campus of IIM Bangalore, adorned with lush greenery, a fully equipped sports center, and a 24-hour canteen (well till 4 am at least!), offers an environment that keeps us engaged on campus. Many of us enjoy leisurely walks, badminton matches, or refreshing swims, rarely feeling the need to leave the school grounds.

In the pleasant Bangalore weather, post-dinner strolls around the campus are a cherished pastime. It not only helps in unwinding and destressing, but also gives us an opportunity to discuss the latest cases and developments, fostering intellectual exchange and camaraderie. Living in such a green campus, who needs to visit Cubbon Park or Lalbagh for a walk?

What do you hope to do after graduation? I wish to work in strategy and implementation consulting in the urban development and infrastructure sector. With growing investments in infrastructure development and a shift towards decentralized urban planning, the sector is undergoing a significant transformation. I believe that my MBA from IIM Bangalore will equip me to achieve my long-term career goals in this evolving industry.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into IIM Bangalore? Crafting a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) is crucial for articulating why you need for an MBA. It will illustrate your journey, highlight achievements, and setbacks, and demonstrate resilience. I would say this is the most important submission of the admissions process so do spend considerable time on it.

While networking and seeking diverse perspectives is important for your admissions journey, learn to filter. Everyone’s journey is unique, and you can carve your own path. IIM Bangalore is a place that will value your uniqueness and it’s important to know what sets you apart from everyone else. Know Thyself!

DON’T MISS: MEET IIM BANGALORE’S EPGP CLASS OF 2025