Notable personalities, including celebrated musician Shankar Mahadevan, veteran actress Shabana Azmi, and former Indian tennis player Leander Paes, received honorary doctorates from Techno India University (TIU), Kolkata, in a ceremonious event held on Monday. The prestigious university awarded these honorary degrees in recognition of the significant contributions made by these individuals in their respective fields.
Expressing his immense gratitude, Shankar Mahadevan shared his emotions with ANI. “This is a very special day for me,” he said. “I am completely grateful and honoured to receive this Doctorate from Techno India, a very prestigious organisation. I feel even more blessed because of the people along with whom I received it.” Mahadevan emphasized his commitment to furthering the impact of music, noting, “It is also a responsibility to work harder in the field of music, not just for entertainment but to use music as a tool for the betterment of humanity and address various causes that are associated with human beings.”
Taking a moment to connect with the students, Mahadevan dazzled the audience by performing a song from the acclaimed movie “Lakshya.” His performance was met with enthusiastic applause and added a vibrant touch to the event.
Meanwhile, Shabana Azmi, one of India’s most esteemed actresses and an ardent social activist, expressed her overwhelming joy and gratitude through social media. Earlier in the day, Azmi took to Instagram to pen a heartfelt note, reflecting her abundant happiness on receiving the honorary doctorate in the august presence of Former President of India, Ram Nath Kovind. Azmi’s post was soon flooded with congratulatory messages from fans, peers, and well-wishers, celebrating her achievements and recognition.
Shabana Azmi’s illustrious career in Indian cinema, marked by numerous awards and accolades, is a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication. Over the years, she has not only graced the silver screen with powerful performances but has also been an influential voice in advocating for women’s rights and other social issues. Her honorary doctorate from TIU is a fitting acknowledgment of her multi-faceted contributions to society.
Leander Paes, revered as one of India’s greatest tennis players, also received an honorary doctorate at the same event.
. Paes’ illustrious career includes multiple Grand Slam titles and an Olympic bronze medal, making him one of the most respected figures in the world of tennis. His achievements have brought immense pride to India, and the honorary degree from TIU serves as a recognition of his unwavering dedication and exceptional sportsmanship.
The event underscored Techno India University’s commitment to celebrating excellence in diverse fields. TIU, one of Kolkata’s leading educational institutions, has always strived to promote education, innovation, and societal contribution. The conferment of honorary doctorates to Mahadevan, Azmi, and Paes is reflective of this mission.
As the ceremony progressed, it was clear that the honoured recipients were deeply moved by the recognition and the warm reception they received. The audience, comprising students, faculty, and esteemed guests, was equally inspired by the life stories and achievements of these luminaries.
Mahadevan’s remarks on using music for humanitarian causes resonate deeply in today’s times, reflecting the potential of art to bring about social change. His perspective on the role of music beyond entertainment serves as a powerful reminder of the broader impact that artists can have. Similarly, Azmi’s work both in cinema and social activism highlights the significant influence that celebrities can wield in addressing critical social issues. Paes’ lifelong commitment to sports and his continuous efforts to inspire young athletes underscore the importance of perseverance and dedication.
The conferment of the honorary doctorates was not just a ceremony but a celebration of excellence, inspiration, and the endless possibilities that dedication and hard work can create. The honoured individuals, through their words and actions, continue to inspire countless others, encouraging them to pursue their passions and make meaningful contributions to society.
The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation among the attendees, significantly underscoring the importance of recognising and celebrating exceptional talent and hard work. As the benefactors of these honorary degrees returned to their respective arenas, they carried with them not just an honorary title, but a mantle of responsibility to continue inspiring and making a difference in the world.
