The senior most technician of the AV lab, Duli Chandji, is retiring this July after thirty years of service. Born in Abohar, Punjab, he came to Pilani in 1964, at the age of six after his family sent him here to study in a boarding school with his cousin. His inability to join BITS after school did not hinder his passion for electronics, and he soon set up an electronics shop in his rented residence here. He also spent time helping school students with projects ranging from simple circuits to elaborate robots capable of walking. He partly credits his employment at BITS to these projects – some of which even won awards at the state-level.

In 1988, he responded to an interview call from BITS, where he demonstrated his technical and practical knowledge by successfully repairing a few broken components. Since then, he has been one of the most multi-talented technicians here at BITS. His interests led him to the electronics lab where he worked as a lab assistant for fifteen years. His desire to study projectors and sound systems led him to the AV lab, which he is currently in charge of. He has worked in a variety of labs on campus, with students at all levels of study.

Among his major achievements at BITS was his design of the bell circuit, which rings at the start and end of classes. He also taught himself to repair photocopiers when they were first introduced at BITS, a time when photocopiers were extremely expensive to repair. Hence Duli Chandji’s expertise was invaluable to the institute and won him plaudits from many, including the Director.

After a lifetime spent pursuing his passion in electronics, he emphasizes the importance of working towards one’s goals relentlessly. After his retirement, he plans to return to his hometown and spend time managing his family farm.