Kerala University confers honorary doctorates on K. Radhakrishnan, Sreekumaran Thampi, Madhu and P.R. Sreejesh

Kerala University conferred honorary doctorates upon former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairperson K. Radhakrishnan, veteran actor Madhu, acclaimed poet, lyricist and filmmaker Sreekumaran Thampi, and Olympic medalist and former captain of the Indian hockey team P.R. Sreejesh at its 32nd Honorary Convocation held on Monday (October 26, 2026).

The Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) Honoris Causa was conferred on Mr. Thampi and Mr. Sreejesh at the ceremony. The Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) Honoris Causa was conferred in absentia on Dr. Radhakrishnan. The degree will be formally presented to the eminent space scientist by the Chancellor at the Keralam Lok Bhavan within a few days. Mr. Madhu, who was also unable to attend the event, was conferred D.Litt. at his residence in the State capital later in the day.

Keralam Governor and University Chancellor Om Prakash Mathur, who presided over the convocation ceremony, said a university was not merely a place where degrees were awarded, but an institution where knowledge was created, ideas were debated, values were nurtured and the future of society was shaped.

He also called upon universities to promote multidisciplinary research, innovation and entrepreneurship, strengthen links with industry and society, and prepare students to become responsible citizens and sensitive human beings.

Contribution to progress

Speaking on the occasion, Higher Education Minister and University Pro-Chancellor Roji M. John said the conferment of the honorary doctorates recognised the extraordinary achievements of the awardees, while inspiring young students to dream big, pursue excellence and contribute meaningfully to society. He also expressed pride that all recipients were alumni of the institution, making the occasion also a celebration of the enduring legacy of the university and its contribution to Keralam’s progress.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Thampi spoke about his early ambition to pursue higher studies in Malayalam and become a college teacher, and how circumstances led him through mathematics and civil engineering before he devoted his life to literature and cinema. Having completed 75 years as a poet and 60 years as a film lyricist, he said he wished to remain a curious learner throughout his life.

Reflecting on his 25-year journey in hockey, Mr. Sreejesh said his greatest achievement was not merely winning medals or receiving awards, but never giving up despite failures, disappointments and difficult moments.

Dr. Radhakrishnan, whose message was read out at the event, recalled that his education in the State laid the foundation for his entry into ISRO in 1971. Referring to the successful Mars Orbiter Mission, he described it as an example of national vision, institutional legacy, teamwork and resilience. “The sky is no longer the limit; it is merely our launchpad,” he stated.

Mr. Madhu contrasted the honour with the effort involved in earning academic degrees through years of study and examinations. “Perhaps even if all my other degrees are weighed together, this degree would carry as much weight,” he said.

Vice-Chancellor in-charge Mohanan Kunnummal, members of the Syndicate and senate and other officials were also present on the occasion.