- Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth Celebrates A Special Convocation & Hosts 8th International Ayurveda Congress
Pimpri/Pune: Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (DPU), a distinguished institution of higher learning, held its momentous Convocation ceremony on February 1, 2025, at its grand auditorium. This prestigious event coincided with the inauguration of the two-day Eighth International Ayurveda Congress 2025, attracting a global assembly of Ayurveda experts, researchers, practitioners, and students. The congress served as a vibrant platform for exchanging cutting-edge knowledge, featuring insightful lectures, groundbreaking research presentations, and collaborative brainstorming sessions on a wide spectrum of Ayurvedic disciplines.
The Convocation ceremony was graced by Dr. P. D. Patil, Chancellor of DPU, a luminary in the field of education, who served as Chief Guest. Joining him were esteemed dignitaries including Dr. Tony Nader, Head of the Global Transcendental Meditation Organization and President of Maharishi International University, IA, USA; Dr. Sadanand Sardeshmukh, Chairman of the Bharatiya Sanskriti Darshan Trust, Pune; Dr. Bhagyashree Patil, Pro-Chancellor, DPU; Dr. Somnath Patil, Pro-Chancellor of Dnyan Prasad University, Pune; Dr. N. J. Pawar, Vice Chancellor, DPU; Dr. Smita Jadhav, Pro Vice Chancellor, DPU; and Dr. Yashraj Patil, Treasurer & Trustee, DPU, along with a distinguished gathering of faculty, students, and guests.
The Convocation reached its zenith with the conferment of the Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) degree upon two exceptional individuals: Dr. Tony Nader and Dr. Sadanand Sardeshmukh. These eminent figures, recognized for their extraordinary contributions and profound impact, were celebrated for their dedication to advancing their respective fields and enriching humanity.
“This is a momentous day for the Vidyapeeth,” declared Chancellor Dr. P. D. Patil, “as we have the distinct honor of recognizing these illustrious individuals and their remarkable achievements.”
The ceremony commenced with a stately procession, followed by the stirring strains of the National Anthem and the Vidyapeeth Geet. The Vice-Chancellor then presented a comprehensive report highlighting the university’s impressive accomplishments. The highlight of the event, the conferment of the Honoris Causa degrees, was met with enthusiastic applause. Dr. P. D. Patil delivered a compelling convocation address, his words resonating deeply with the assembled audience.
Dr. Tony Nader, upon receiving his Honoris Causa, articulated his vision, stating, “Vedic literature offers a scientific pathway to understanding life. Consciousness, the very essence of existence, is primary. The expansion of this consciousness is the fundamental purpose of our human journey. These profound truths, enshrined in the ancient Vedic texts, connect the pursuit of happiness with this expansion of consciousness, revealing it as the underlying impetus of our lives. Furthermore, the Vedas offer remarkable correlations with human physiology, anatomy, cell biology, and DNA, demonstrating that their wisdom transcends philosophical concepts and extends into the realm of tangible scientific reality.”
Dr. Sadanand Sardeshmukh, reflecting on his pioneering work in Ayurveda, a legacy inherited from his father, shared, “My focus lies in improving the lives of cancer patients and addressing the challenges of fracture and delayed bone healing. Our treatment protocols are rooted in fundamental changes to dietary habits and lifestyle, recognizing these as the cornerstones of the healing process. I am deeply gratified by the international recognition our work has received, validating the efficacy of our approach.”
Concurrently, the 8th International Ayurveda Congress, a collaborative endeavor by Dr. D. Y. Patil College of Ayurved & Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune; the International Academy of Ayurveda Pune; the International Maharishi Ayurveda Foundation, Netherlands; and the All India Ayurvedic Congress, Delhi, unfolded from February 1st to 2nd. Endorsed by the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, New Delhi, and the National Commission for Indian Systems of Medicine, New Delhi, the congress championed evidence-based research, innovation, and the application of Ayurveda to contemporary health challenges. It also fostered international collaboration and promoted the ‘Ayushman Bharat Program – Integrated Health Scheme’ and the ‘Heal in India’ initiative championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The congress attracted over 100 international experts from 10 nations and more than 1200 national researchers, professors, doctors, and students. Over 500 research papers were presented by students, doctors, and researchers from India and abroad.