Cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin, Film Maker Vetrimaaran, and Entrepreneur & Philanthropist

 Cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin, Film Maker Vetrimaaran, and Entrepreneur & Philanthropist A.M. Gopalan Honoured with Doctorates at Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies Convocation

 Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS) hosted its 16th Annual Convocation Ceremony today at the Pallavaram Vels University Campus, Chennai, during which 4,992 graduates were conferred degrees across various disciplines. The graduates included 3,631 Undergraduates, 1,155 Postgraduates, 2 M.Phil scholars, and 204 Ph.D. awardees.

The ceremony was graced by the Chief Guest, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Hon’ble Minister of State (i/c) for Law and Justice, and Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Government of India, who delivered the convocation address praised the institution for shaping thousands of students and stressed the role of science and technology in making India self-reliant and achieving the 2047 vision. Recalling the evolution of industrial revolutions leading to Industry 4.0 powered by AI and digital tools, he urged graduates to drive innovation and outlined his “VISTAS” Vision, Innovation, Science, Technology, Advancement, and Sustainability. Quoting Thiruvalluvar, he highlighted the value of learning and ethics, noted India’s rise as the world’s fourth-largest economy soon to be third, and congratulated over 5,000 graduates, calling them the future of the nation. 

Honoris Causa Awardees

As part of the convocation, Vels University conferred Honorary Doctorate Degrees (Honoris Causa) on three eminent personalities for their exceptional contributions to their respective fields:

Thiru A.M. Gopalan – Founder & Chairman, Sree Gokulam Group of Companies

A leading entrepreneur and philanthropist, popularly known as “Gokulam Gopalan,” he has built one of South India’s most successful business conglomerates spanning finance, hospitality, healthcare, education, and entertainment. His vision has created employment for thousands and provided financial empowerment to countless families through Sree Gokulam Chit & Finance. He is also known for his philanthropic activities in education, healthcare, and social welfare.

Mr. Ravichandran Ashwin – Legendary Indian Cricketer

One of the most celebrated cricketers of modern times, Ashwin’s career stands decorated with 537 Test wickets, six Test centuries, and numerous records that place him among cricket’s all-time greats. A member of India’s 2011 ICC World Cup and 2013 ICC Champions Trophy-winning teams, he was also named the ICC Cricketer of the Year and Test Cricketer of the Year in 2016.

 Beyond cricket, Ashwin has inspired youth with his passion for technology, chess, and sports analysis through digital platforms. He retired from international cricket in December 2024 as India’s second-highest Test wicket-taker, leaving behind a lasting legacy.

Mr. Vetrimaaran – National Award-Winning Film Director

A filmmaker deeply committed to realism and social justice, Vetrimaaran has redefined Tamil cinema with powerful films such as Aadukalam, Visaranai, Asuran, and Viduthalai. His works are celebrated for addressing themes of inequality, justice, and human rights, earning both national and international recognition.

 His film Aadukalam won six National Awards, while Visaranai was India’s official entry to the Oscars. His creative voice has not only entertained audiences but also challenged them to reflect on pressing social issues, cementing his reputation as one of India’s most significant filmmakers.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Chancellor of Vels University, said:

 “It was a moment of great pride to honour leaders from business, sports, and cinema who have inspired millions. Their journeys are testaments to hard work, vision, and perseverance, and they will continue to motivate our graduates as they embark on their own paths of excellence.”

The event at the Pallavaram Campus concluded with the conferment of degrees, inspiring speeches, and celebrations, marking a historic day in the journey of Vels University.