Shoolini University celebrated the 84th birthday of its Founder and Chancellor, Prof PK Khosla, as Prerna Diwas. Throughout the day, various activities unfolded, each reflecting the university's core values and commitment to its community.
The festivities kicked off with the unveiling of a statue of MS Swaminathan, the revered ‘Father of the Green Revolution in India’ and recent recipient of the Bharat Ratna. This was followed by laying the foundation stone for the Centre of Happiness. The day continued with a ‘hawan’ ceremony at the campus temple, where faculty, staff, and students came together in a spirit of unity and devotion. This was followed by a lively cake-cutting ceremony in honour of Prof Khosla's birthday.
During a function later in the day, Prof Khosla shared his reflections on life's challenges, encouraging the university community to view adversities as opportunities for growth. He emphasised the importance of a shift in perspective and the development of strong willpower to achieve one's goals.
Prof Khosla shared his vision for India's bright future, attributing a significant part of the nation's progress to its deep-rooted spiritual beliefs and adherence to the doctrine of ‘Karma’. He highlighted the role of spirituality in national development, suggesting that India's dedication to these values sets it apart on the global stage.
Chairperson of the Foundation for Life Sciences and Business Management Saroj Khosla, described Prof Khosla as a man with a very strong willpower who had worked hard to achieve his goals. The event was attended by top management of the university, including Vice Chancellor Prof Atul Khosla, Trustees Satish Anand and Ashok Anand, former Panjab University Vice Chancellor Prof RC Sobti, President Innovation Ashish Khosla, Chief Learning Officer Ashoo Khosla, Vice President Admissions and Placements Avnee Khosla, Prof JM Julka, and Prof Sunil Puri.
During the celebrations, Prof Khosla took the opportunity to honour its faculty members for their outstanding research contributions. Assistant Professor Lokender Kumar Sharma was awarded a Rs 5-lakh prize for his publication in the prestigious Nature Journal. Additionally, Assistant Professor Deepak Kumar received a Rs 50,000 reward for publishing the highest number of research papers in 2023. Professors Pradeep and Pankaj Raizada were also recognised for their exceptional research achievements. The awards ceremony was skillfully hosted by Assistant Professor Indu Negi, adding to the significance of the Prerna Diwas event.
Concluding the day, everyone enjoyed a colourful cultural programme at the OAT.
Solan, February 18