PES University’s Faculty of Management and Commerce hosted DabbaThon 2.0, an exciting 24‑hour hackathon held on February 20-21, 2026 at PESU52. Organized in collaboration with the renowned Mumbai Dabbawala Association, the event brought together over 200 students forming 29 teams, representing diverse programs including BBA, Business Analytics, B.Com, ACCA, B.Tech, M.Tech, Psychology, Design, and Law. This interdisciplinary mix created a vibrant space for problem‑solving rooted in real-world challenges.
The hackathon began with registrations and an insightful inauguration ceremony led by distinguished faculty, including Dr. Jayashree Sapra, Dr. Samini Mathew, and Prof. Anuradha Pai, along with core organizing members. A highlight of the early sessions was the industry briefing by Mr. Sunil Gavande (CEO) and Mr. Amol Gavande (Spokesperson) of the Mumbai Dabbawala Association, who shared a rare behind‑the‑scenes look at the operational excellence and daily challenges of the century‑old delivery system.
Participants then moved through three structured rounds—Problem Analysis, Impact Catalyst, and Solution Synthesis—designed to push innovative and feasible thinking. Throughout the night, faculty mentors and alumni reviewers guided teams across multiple rooms, helping them refine their ideas using data-driven insights, market research, and feasibility frameworks. A unique simulation activity recreated the Dabbawala coding and delivery system, giving students hands-on exposure to coordination and logistical precision.
From the 29 competing teams, 10 were shortlisted for the final pitching session. The jury panel—comprising faculty, alumni, and Dabbawala leaders—evaluated the solutions based on innovation, relevance, and real-world applicability.
Winners
- First Prize: Nitya Dahiya, Nivedita K Trivedi, Arnav A Thakur, Gyaan Shetty, Zeyan Ahmad
- Second Prize: Prishaa Shende, Shreya M, Sanjana Desai, Rochan Kulkarni, Vineeth Savalgi, Pravardhan TA
- Third Prize: Sai Raksha Jayanth, Shravani Shetty, BK Thanu, Shanvi Agarwal, Riya Rohit Ghorpade
Behind the scenes, a dedicated student organizing team ensured smooth operations—from registrations and logistics to hospitality, technical setup, and schedule coordination.
A Transformative Learning Experience
DabbaThon 2.0 offered far more than competition. It provided students with practical exposure to problem-solving, teamwork under pressure, research, data analysis, and professional communication. By bridging academic learning with real-world business challenges, the event successfully nurtured creativity, critical thinking, and an entrepreneurial mindset.
