The past year has been a rather difficult one. Of the many lessons it taught, one that stands out for me, is that when we learn how to become resilient, we can learn how to embrace the beautifully broad spectrum of human experience. In the past few months, we did, indeed, accept and embrace a rather new normal in our life, without much choice, yet willingly. Nonetheless, all of us managed to cope with the constantly changing times.

That is exactly where education comes in handy; to help us cope with change. Education is not simply limited to books. The purpose of education is to enable people to add value to human lives. Now, more than ever, our students are going to have to step out of their comfort zones, discover themselves, and contribute to the society. What is important here, is to discover oneself. It is only through self-discovery that one can have a fulfilling career. With that in mind, we have established the Ankur Incubation Centre two years back, where students can come forward with ideas and get the requisite guidance in that regard. I would also encourage students to come forward and take initiative if they have any ideas which they feel are worth exploring.

Since the past 61 years, our institution has been in ‘Pursuit of Technical Excellence’, and to say that we have lived up to it, shall be no overstatement. Not only have our students made us proud on the technical front by winning accolades at national level technical competitions like SAE BAJA, Robocon, or TechFest (IIT-B), but our cultural teams have also rocked Firodiya and Purshottam Karandak. Our focus, as an institution, has been on holistic development of an individual, and these accomplishments prove just that. Along with our dear students, the teaching and non-teaching staff have a lion’s share in these achievements.

However, progress is a continuous process. There is still significant scope for improvement. Better academics with relevant and constant revamping of the curriculum, better placement assistance for students, proper exposure to budding talent, stronger alumni network, smoother administration, increased industry-institute interaction, and availability of state-of-the-art infrastructure are some of the key areas of focus.

Also, I wish to congratulate Team Catalyst on their 6th edition of their magazine! I particularly appreciate how they provide a platform for our students to express themselves through art.

I would like to conclude with a few lines by Tennyson, which encapsulate the human spirit to endure through even the most difficult of times:

We are not now that strength which in old days
Moved earth and heaven,
That which we are, we are,
One equal temper of heroic hearts,
Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will
To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.

Editorial

Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising everytime we fall. - Confucius.
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The past year was one filled with unprecedented challenges, and hence opportunities in disguise. Opportunities to pause, reflect, unlearn, and relearn many things, new and old. Despite the uncertain nature of eventualities, all of us endured, and managed to overcome our odds. Keeping that in mind, team Catalyst came up with this year's theme 'Phoenix', a symbol of hope, resilience, and resurrection. A symbol of hope for us to hold on to and never lose faith. A symbol of resilience, to keep persevering in the worst face of adversity. And a symbol of resurrection, to rise, however hard the fall.
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This year's magazine is focused on looking at things in a new way, about constantly learning, and outgrowing ourselves. All write-ups, designs, and interviews have been planned in a manner coherent with the theme of the magazine. Right since its inception, Catalyst has provided a platform for students to express themselves, and get themselves heard. A few rather interesting sections many students look forward to are the 'Expressions' (where articles/poems/drawings/sketches taken from students are displayed) and the Interview sections. It is really fascinating to watch artworks from our very own students. The team interviewed Tanay Manjrekar, the Indian youngster who happens to be among the first people to ride the Virgin Hyperloop. His experience, both in his learning and professional years, shall surely add value to our readers' lives.

Owing to the pandemic, this year, too, the magazine is being published in an online manner. Thus the team has tried to make the magazine a little interactive. I congratulate the team for this creative initiative. In conclusion, I wish you, the reader, a fruitful reading experience! Cheers to Team Catalyst for the 6th edition!