Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) chief Tuhin Kanta Pandey went back in time at an official event in Chandigarh. Speaking at the University Auditorium, he recalled his student days at Panjab University, nearly 40 years after he studied there. He was on campus to unveil 'Project Jagrook' and to flag off the pan-India inauguration of World Investor Week.
SEBI Chief's Panjab University Memories: Library, Economics Department, and More
Pandey opened his speech by describing his time at the varsity as "an experience that is difficult to describe in words." He spoke about the three years he spent at the AC Joshi Library and, in particular, the Economics Department, where he completed his Master's degree and his initial Junior Research Fellowship (JRF).
He said these memories "bring my cherished memories to life again." He also thanked the faculty members under whom he pursued his studies.
Late Night Paranthas at PGI Canteen: A Food Memory From Student Days
Among the memories he shared, Pandey remembered the late night paranthas at the PGI canteen. It was a simple, personal detail that showed how strongly his Chandigarh student years stayed with him. For a man now heading India's market regulator, the canteen food and the library hours were clearly as memorable as the classroom lessons.
Why This Visit Matters Beyond the Nostalgia
The occasion itself was official. Pandey was at Panjab University to launch 'Project Jagrook' and to start the pan-India inauguration of World Investor Week. His speech, however, turned into a tribute to his alma mater. The mix of duty and nostalgia made the event stand out — a regulator returning to the campus that shaped him, nearly four decades later.
Our Take: A Human Moment From a Top Regulator
In our view, this story matters because it shows a different side of a top official. SEBI chiefs are usually seen only through rules, circulars, and market decisions. Here, Pandey spoke like any former student — remembering a library, a department, and a canteen that served paranthas late at night.
To put it plainly, readers should take two things from this. First, even people in the most serious jobs carry strong memories of their college days. Second, Panjab University's role in shaping public figures is worth noting. The event also served its purpose — Project Jagrook and World Investor Week got attention, and Pandey's personal connection to the city and campus made the message more relatable.
For students and alumni, the takeaway is simple: the places you eat, study, and spend late nights in become part of your story. Pandey's speech is proof that those memories do not fade, even after 40 years.
