Kunal

Indian Institute of Management Bangalore

“Love numbers, live results—sportsman at heart, engineer by training, always game for challenges.”

Hometown: Karnal, Haryana

Fun Fact About Yourself: I’m partially ambidextrous—I write with my right hand, eat with my left, bat right-handed, bowl left-arm, serve with my right in badminton but play most shots with my left.

Undergraduate School and Major: Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IITR), Bachelor of Technology in Chemical Engineering

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: GAIL India Limited, Manager

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? The comprehensive project at IIM Bangalore truly set the program apart for me—it promises immersive, hands-on exposure that bridges academia and industry. Conversations with alumni underscored how these projects push students out of their comfort zones and foster practical problem-solving skills valued in the real world.

The chance to interact closely with world-class faculty, who blend academic insights with industry expertise, was another major draw. Their mentorship and open-door policy inspire innovation and personal growth.

Additionally, alumni consistently praised the collaborative environment, where cross-disciplinary teamwork and access to a broad professional network add immense value. These aspects convinced me that IIM Bangalore offers a transformative experience that builds both capability and confidence for future leadership.

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? My favourite course at IIM Bangalore has been Micro and Macro Economics. While the content itself was enriching, it was the professors who made it truly outstanding. Their clarity, passion, and ability to connect theory with real-world applications made every lecture immersive and thought-provoking. The classroom discussions brought economic concepts to life, helping me view business decisions through a structured, analytical lens.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that economics is not just about markets and numbers—it’s about understanding choices, incentives, and behavior, both at micro and macro levels.

What makes Bengaluru such a great place to earn your MBA? Bengaluru is the perfect place to pursue an MBA, thanks to its status as India’s leading tech and innovation hub. The city offers constant exposure to startups, global firms, and industry leaders, many of whom work nearby and frequently engage in seminars at IIMB. Its pleasant climate and dynamic professional ecosystem create an ideal environment for learning, collaboration, and career opportunities beyond the classroom.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: One of my most significant accomplishments has been contributing to multiple pioneering projects at GAIL that are shaping the future of India’s energy landscape. I was part of the team that successfully commissioned the Flare Gas Recovery Project, delivering substantial environmental benefits along with estimated monthly cost savings of INR 1 crore. I also played a key role in executing India’s first-ever hydrogen blending project for city gas distribution—an ambitious step toward a sustainable energy mix. In addition, I contributed to the groundwork for GAIL’s first green hydrogen plant and India’s first small- scale LNG plant, both of which are strategic initiatives for cleaner energy solutions. Our team’s efforts were recognized with a Silver Award at the prestigious 33rd Chapter Convention on Quality Concepts, further validating the impact of our work.

Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far: Despite coming from an engineering background, I managed to score impressively in finance—even in a class that included several Chartered Accountants. This achievement pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, adapt quickly, and build confidence in a new field.

Outside of academics, I embraced campus life and competition. I reached the finals in lawn tennis and was part of the team that won the cricket tournament during Ice Breakers, where both sports brought together students from eight sections across PGP and EPGP. These experiences highlighted for me the value of determination, teamwork, and versatility, both inside and outside the classroom. Excelling in studies while making a mark in extracurriculars has made my MBA experience especially fulfilling and motivating.

What is your class’s favorite hangout away from school? Why do you gather there? Bengaluru is an ideal city to pursue an MBA, offering the perfect balance of professional exposure and vibrant social life. Spots like Mykos, Gatsby, Taaza Thindi, and Rameshwaram Café have become class favorites, whether for quick bites or post-class unwinds. The city’s great weather and endless options make it feel like even a year isn’t enough to fully explore all it has to offer.

What do you hope to do after graduation? After graduation, I plan to continue building my career at GAIL by taking on larger leadership responsibilities and championing transformative, sustainable initiatives. My goal is to leverage the skills and insights gained from the MBA to spearhead operational improvements, advance clean energy projects, and strengthen our industry leadership. I’m committed to contributing to GAIL’s green energy transition and operational excellence, ensuring we set benchmarks for innovation and responsibility in the sector. Remaining a part of GAIL’s growth story excites me, and I look forward to making a positive impact from within.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into IIM Bangalore? For an MBA at IIM Bangalore, the most crucial elements are staying true to yourself and understanding why you’re here. Don’t just go through the motions; embrace who you are and what truly drives you. Constantly reflect on your purpose for pursuing this MBA – what do you genuinely want to achieve? This clarity and authenticity will be your compass, guiding you through the rigorous program and ensuring you maximize every opportunity at IIMB.

DON’T MISS: MEET IIM BANGALORE’S EPGP CLASS OF 2026

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