Old Building

The Old Building of IIT Kharagpur is a powerful emblem of the Institute’s historic origins and enduring legacy. Formerly part of the Hijli Detention Camp, the Old Building stands as a silent witness to India’s freedom struggle and its subsequent transformation into a centre of learning and national renewal. With the establishment of IIT Kharagpur on 18 August 1951, this structure became the cradle of the country’s first Indian Institute of Technology, marking the beginning of a new era in technical education.

From these very premises, IIT Kharagpur commenced its academic journey with only 224 students and 42 teachers. Over time, the Old Building nurtured generations of engineers, scientists, researchers, and leaders who have gone on to make significant contributions in India and across the world. The building thus represents not only architectural heritage but also the intellectual and moral foundations upon which the Institute was built.

Today, the Old Building forms part of the Hijli Saheed Bhawan, a site of deep historical and emotional significance. It embodies the remarkable transformation of a place once associated with colonial oppression into a symbol of enlightenment, innovation, and progress. Set within the expansive 2,200-acre campus, it continues to occupy a place of pride in the collective memory of the IIT Kharagpur community.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

To mark the Platinum Jubilee of IIT Kharagpur, celebrating seventy-five years of excellence in education, research, and innovation, the Department of Posts is pleased to release a set of commemorative postage stamps. One of these stamps features an artistic depiction of the Old Building, highlighting its historical importance and timeless presence. The stamp pays tribute to the role of the Old Building in the birth of IIT Kharagpur and honours its journey from a detention camp to a monument of learning.

Through this commemorative postage stamp, the Old Building is immortalised as a symbol of resilience, transformation, and the Institute’s outstanding contribution to nation-building and technological advancement.