Pics by Daijiworld News Network - Rons Bantwal

Mumbai, Jul 18: President APJ Abdul Kalam on Tuesday kickstarted the 150 anniversary celebrations of the Mumbai University, which is one of the oldest universities in the country.

The celebrations were held inside the newly restored Cowasjeee Jehngair Convocation Hall, which is a grand neo-gothic structure newly restored.

The university spent around Rs 2 crore for the refurbishing of the hall to prepare it for the special occasion.

Moreover, 15 Mumbaikars who have contributed to the success of the city and the country were felicitated during the celebrations, among them were industrialist Mukesh Ambani, the voice of the common man RK Laxman and former India cricket captain Ajit Wadekar.

"I did not play cricket in school. I am a product of the University's cricket coaching. I started my career here and the university shaped it," said Wadekar.

However, the highlight of the celebrations was the 20 minutes that the students got to spend interacting with the President, and with his easy manner, the President won himself more than a few admirers.

Also, there is plenty more for students to celebrate in the year ahead with the university planning to introduce new courses and tie ups with other institutes.