Patel hall, built in December 1951, is the oldest hall in the IIT community. Housing over 300 students, it is situated in the PAN (Patel-Azad-Nehru) loop (officially called the Oval 3) near the Technology Swimming Pool. Being the hall which once housed the Gymkhana, its walls speak of stories of the past and present. It has been here and seen not only the growth of IIT Kharagpur but the growth of IITs into institutes of global repute.
It is named after Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the legendary Iron Man of India known for major role in the country’s struggle for independence and its integration into a united, independent nation. He was the first Home Minister of independent India.
The motto of the hall is lux et veritas vincant (translated as “Let Light and Truth Prevail”) and the residents and alumni, better known as Patelians, live by this motto.
Patel has four blocks, the A, B, C and D comprising of 23 wings. Patel is well know for the unity among the students. Student life in Patel hall is diversified and fun with different academic, socio-cultural and sports activities. Students take active part in Inter-Hall, Gymkhana and Inter-IIT activities and bring home laurels.
The Hall Council manages the hall under the wardens’ guidance. Headed by the Hall President, it has six General Secretaries, 15 Secretaries and 8 nominated Council Members. Captains head activities related to each socio-cultural, sport and technological event.
The hall has been and will take the glorious IIT heritage forward in the times to come.