Over 3,000 students from Techno India University received their degrees at the annual Convocation held on August 12, 2024, at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre. The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the graduating class, with 22 students earning doctorates and more than 60 receiving prestigious Gold Medals. The convocation ceremony was elevated by the presence of several eminent personalities who were honoured with honorary Doctor of Literature (D.Litt.) degrees in recognition of their exceptional contributions to their respective fields. Their inspiring presence served as a powerful motivation for the graduating students as they embark on their professional journeys.
Shri. Shankar Mahadevan received the award in the category of Indian Music. A multifaceted Indian musician, he has been renowned for his singing, composing and music direction for the past two decades. He was honoured with the Padma Shri Award by President Ram Nath Kovind in 2019 and he recently bagged the Grammy Award as a member of the group Shakti in 2024 for Best Global Music Album.
It was evident amongst the audience that they were excited about Mahadevan’s presence. When asked about the ceremony, Mahadevan spoke, “I’m privileged to receive this doctorate on behalf of such an esteemed organisation as Techno India.”
Mahadevan shared that he was especially honoured to have gotten this award alongside personalities like Shri. Shabana Azmi and Shri. Leander Paes. “I feel even more blessed because of the people along with whom I received this, who’ve done incredible work in their own respective fields. I thank them for giving me this honour.”
He expressed that receiving the award has increased his sense of responsibility to contribute more to the field of music. He emphasized using music not only as a source of entertainment but as a tool to improve the lives of people and address various social issues.
“I’d like to congratulate each and every one of the students, and I wish them all the very best. May they just focus on their work, their core competencies. If you’re a good write, just write. If you’re a good painter, just paint.”
Mahadevan also expressed his fondness for Calcutta, describing it as a city brimming with fun, rich culture, wonderful people, fantastic music, and delicious food.