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IIM Bangalore: Arun Pai did something extraordinary
While some people methodically build career trajectories, Arun Pai (PGP 1993) did something extraordinary. He helped build Namma Bengaluru.
When Arun graduated from IIM Bangalore, few would have predicted that he would become one of Bengaluru's most influential civic voices, earning the affectionate title of the city's "Footpath Mayor”.
Over the past two decades, Arun has transformed the idea of citizenship from a passive identity into an active practice. Through initiatives such as Bangalore Walks, India Rising Trust, The Ugly Indian, Project Walkaluru and the Indian Pedestrian League, he has rallied citizens, institutions, civic bodies and volunteers to reimagine public spaces, improve walkability and make urban infrastructure work, and work better, for everyone.
His TEDx talk, ‘Why is India so Filthy?’, sparked conversation far beyond Bengaluru. His work has been featured by global media, recognized through the Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Award, appreciated by the Prime Minister, and celebrated by communities around the country. His guiding philosophy, however, remains remarkably simple: "If you want to change the world, start with your own street”.
For demonstrating just how leadership can extend beyond the confines of the boardroom and into neighborhoods, footpaths, public spaces and civic life, IIMB will confer the Distinguished Alumni Award on Arun Pai on June 14, 2026.
When Arun graduated from IIM Bangalore, few would have predicted that he would become one of Bengaluru's most influential civic voices, earning the affectionate title of the city's "Footpath Mayor”.
Over the past two decades, Arun has transformed the idea of citizenship from a passive identity into an active practice. Through initiatives such as Bangalore Walks, India Rising Trust, The Ugly Indian, Project Walkaluru and the Indian Pedestrian League, he has rallied citizens, institutions, civic bodies and volunteers to reimagine public spaces, improve walkability and make urban infrastructure work, and work better, for everyone.
His TEDx talk, ‘Why is India so Filthy?’, sparked conversation far beyond Bengaluru. His work has been featured by global media, recognized through the Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Award, appreciated by the Prime Minister, and celebrated by communities around the country. His guiding philosophy, however, remains remarkably simple: "If you want to change the world, start with your own street”.
For demonstrating just how leadership can extend beyond the confines of the boardroom and into neighborhoods, footpaths, public spaces and civic life, IIMB will confer the Distinguished Alumni Award on Arun Pai on June 14, 2026.
