Professor Hrishikesh Pathak worked in the Economics Area from 10th May 1963 to 31st January 1983. His lasting contribution to IIMA is the Sanskrit phrase embedded in the IIMA logo - Vidya Viniyogadvikasa- which means 'development through the distribution or application of knowledge'. He mooted this idea in response to a challenge in the 1960s to find a suitable motto that also carried a cash award.

Prof. Pathak completed his MA in Economics from Mumbai University in 1947. He then obtained his MSc from the London School of Economics in 1953. He began work as an Associate Professor at the Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Arts College in Ahmedabad. From 1948 to 1954, Prof. Pathak worked as a Lecturer in History and Economics in the Education Department of the Government of Mumbai. Later, he joined Gujarat University as a Reader in Economics for eight years between 1955 and 1963.

He was among the first few faculty members recruited by the Institute and was involved in various institutional activities at IIMA. He was Editor of Alumnus between 1980 and 1981. Prof. Pathak had also served on many ad hoc committees. After retiring from the Institute, Prof. Pathak functioned as Visiting Faculty for a course on PPID. He was also the first Faculty Advisor to SPIC MACAY when a chapter was formed at IIMA.

Prof. Pathak was passionate about music. He was often heard humming tunes which enchanted him. He was a man of great charm, civility and culture. He was never ruffled or agitated even in the face of grave provocation.

Date of Birth: 4th January 1923

Date of Death: 8th February 1999