IIT Bombay's Chemistry HOD Dances To 'Nainowale Ne' At College Event; Viral Video Earns Praises - WATCH

A video of Professor Ruchi Anand, the Head of the Department of Chemistry at India's prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay), has gone viral on social media after she was seen dancing to the song from the 2018 Bollywood film Padmaavat at a department event. The clip, shared on Instagram, showcases Anand, known for her scientific pursuits, participating in a cultural performance at the Chemistry Department's in-house symposium.

Dressed in traditional attire, Anand performed to 'Nainowale Ne', a melodious track from Padmaavat, sung by Neeti Mohan. Her graceful performance, characterized by expressive hand movements and subtle gestures, gained widespread attention, not just for its artistic appeal but also for her identity as a senior academic and scientist.

Anand, who completed her M.Sc. at IIT Kanpur and her PhD from Cornell University, has held positions at prestigious institutions like the University of Pennsylvania and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. She joined IIT Bombay as an Assistant Professor in 2008 and rose through the ranks, becoming an Associate Professor in 2014 and a Professor in 2018.

The chemistry department at IIT Bombay encourages a balance between professional responsibilities and activities outside work. Anand herself emphasizes this in a message on the department website, noting that faculty members engage in cultural activities, sports, and picnics alongside their academic duties.

Viewers have praised Anand for her ability to blend her professional life with her artistic passion, with many highlighting the importance of embracing hobbies and interests beyond one's job title. Her performance has inspired others to appreciate the multifaceted nature of professionals, reminding the internet community that a career in science and a love for the arts can indeed coexist harmoniously.