The Department of Mechanical Engineering at IIT Kanpur proposes to institute the Sameer Khandekar Memorial Lecture Series in honor of our beloved colleague, Prof. Sameer Khandekar, whose untimely passing in December 2023 left an irreplaceable void in our academic community.

Prof. Khandekar was an exceptional scholar, teacher, and institution builder. He made pioneering contributions to the science and engineering of phase-change thermofluidic systems, particularly in pulsating heat pipes and energy systems. His work combined deep theoretical insight with cutting-edge experimentation, and extended to projects of national importance, including strong collaborations with India’s premier agencies such as ISRO and BARC.

A strong advocate of global academic engagement, Prof. Khandekar was at the forefront of promoting international research collaborations. He worked closely with leading researchers and institutions across Germany, Russia, France, Italy, Australia, and the United States, helping place IIT Kanpur firmly on the global research map.

Beyond his scholarly accomplishments, Prof. Khandekar was deeply committed to the holistic development of students. He actively encouraged participation in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, and himself engaged enthusiastically in initiatives related to music, theatre, and social service. His contributions reflected a rare blend of intellectual rigor, creativity, and compassion. The proposed lecture series seeks to celebrate his legacy by inviting distinguished scholars and practitioners to share cutting-edge research and insights in areas close to his heart. It will serve as a platform to inspire students, foster intellectual exchange, and uphold the values of excellence, curiosity, and social responsibility that Prof. Khandekar embodied.

We invite alumni, colleagues, and well-wishers to contribute generously to this initiative and help us build a lasting tribute that reflects his enduring impact on the field and the community.