October 5, 2025 – IIT Patna is deeply saddened to announce the untimely passing of Prof. Pushpak Bhattacharyya, the former Director of IIT Patna (2015–2020), who passed away this morning. A distinguished figure in the fields of Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), Prof. Bhattacharyya’s loss has left a profound void in the academic community.
What Happened
Prof. Pushpak Bhattacharyya, a pioneer in the field of NLP and AI, passed away this morning, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades of groundbreaking research and mentorship. His untimely death has left IIT Patna and the wider academic community in mourning, as colleagues, students, and peers reflect on the profound impact he made during his time as the Director of IIT Patna and beyond.
Prof. Bhattacharyya’s contributions were not confined to his research; he was a deeply respected educator and mentor who shaped the careers of countless students, always believing in their potential to push the boundaries of knowledge.
Who Was Prof. Pushpak Bhattacharyya?
Prof. Bhattacharyya began his academic journey at IIT Kharagpur, where he completed his B.Tech before going on to earn his M.Tech at IIT Kanpur. His thirst for knowledge and commitment to excellence led him to pursue a Ph.D. at IIT Bombay, which he completed in 1994. Over the years, he became a key figure in NLP and AI research, with numerous contributions that advanced the field.
He held various prestigious academic positions, ultimately becoming the Director of IIT Patna, where his leadership was marked by a commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and student welfare. His tenure at IIT Patna saw the expansion of the institute’s academic and research pursuits, solidifying his place as one of the great minds in academia.
Career, Legacy, and Contributions
Prof. Bhattacharyya’s legacy extends far beyond his academic achievements. As a researcher, he made substantial contributions to Natural Language Processing, a field that underpins much of today’s artificial intelligence advancements. His work revolutionized the way machines understand and process human language, impacting industries worldwide.
However, it was his role as a teacher and mentor that truly set him apart. Prof. Bhattacharyya was beloved by his students, who remember him not only for his exceptional knowledge but for his compassionate and thoughtful approach to mentorship. He nurtured countless young minds, instilling in them not only academic rigor but also a deep sense of humility and the importance of lifelong learning. His students speak fondly of the way he treated each person with respect, valuing them as individuals and always encouraging them to pursue their dreams.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Upon the announcement of Prof. Bhattacharyya’s passing, tributes poured in from across the academic and research communities. Colleagues, students, and former mentees took to social media to share their heartfelt memories of the legendary professor. Many spoke of his generosity, warmth, and intellectual brilliance, recalling the way he inspired others to reach greater heights in their own careers.
“Prof. Bhattacharyya was not just a teacher—he was a guiding light for all of us,” shared a former student. “His mentorship went beyond the classroom; he made us better human beings.”
Official Statements and What Happens Next
The IIT Patna family is devastated by the loss of Prof. Bhattacharyya, a man who touched the lives of so many. In a statement released by the institution, the faculty and staff expressed their deep sorrow and shared their gratitude for the lasting impact he had on the institute. His contributions to both the academic and administrative realms of IIT Patna will continue to shape the institute’s future.
IIT Patna also extended its condolences to Prof. Bhattacharyya’s family, colleagues, and students, acknowledging the immeasurable void his passing leaves. Arrangements for a memorial or tribute in his honor are yet to be announced, but the institute plans to celebrate his extraordinary life and contributions in the coming days.
Prof. Bhattacharyya’s legacy will live on in the countless minds he influenced and the field of NLP that he helped shape. May his noble soul rest in eternal peace.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
