An Oral History of IIM Calcutta

Book Design by Kumkum Nadig

An Oral History of IIM Calcutta is a commemorative volume that presents a biography of the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta. This book documents the institute's 50-year history, divided into three parts for easy access and comprehension of the timeline. Designed by Kumkum Nadig, the book's aesthetic draws inspiration from early 20th-century literature and publications by Tagore, reflecting the institute's roots in Calcutta. The typography is modern and functional, allowing for easy reading and quick comprehension of the variety of information presented.

The design of the book takes into consideration its three-part structure, with each part and its sub-parts treated differently as chapter openers. The challenge was to create distinct treatments for each type of content without overwhelming the reader with too many varied styles. The result is a book that is visually engaging and easy to navigate, while paying attention to typographic details that enhance the narrative.

The book is printed using offset press technology, with a hard-case cover and section sewing for binding. The Dust Jacket features a French Fold. The closed book size is 16 x 23 cms. The project took four months to complete, with the majority of the writing done at IIM Calcutta and the design work carried out at the Kena Design studio in Bangalore.

The research for this book involved collecting oral histories from individuals who played key roles in the founding and shaping of IIM Calcutta. Additionally, archival material from the Ford Foundation archives in New York and the MIT archives in Cambridge, Massachusetts, was consulted. The design had to accommodate a wide variety of content, ranging from archival images and documents to present-day photographs of campus buildings and events. The typographic elements subtly reflect the evolution of the institution and communicate the changing times.

This outstanding book design by Kumkum Nadig has been recognized with the Bronze A' Design Award in the Print and Published Media Design category. The award acknowledges designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and technical excellence, contributing to improvements in quality of life. With its meticulous attention to detail and innovative approach, An Oral History of IIM Calcutta is a testament to the power of design in capturing and presenting the essence of an institution's journey.