Coming from a simple middle-class family, Dr. Niranjan followed in his father's footsteps into teaching. For several years, he has served as a professor, dedicated to shaping the nation's future. He also got a gold medal in his PG studies, authored and translated many books, and earned acclaim for his contributions to Sanskrit literature.

Dr. Niranjan P. Patel currently serves as the Vice Chancellor of the iconic Sardar Patel University in Anand, Gujarat. His expertise lies in Sanskrit and the ‘Bharatiya Gyan Parampara’. He is dedicated to guiding the youth towards realising and directing their potential and aspirations to the right direction.

Dr. Patel shares that Sardar Patel University (SPU), established in 1955, was established with the purpose of rural development under the inspiration of India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Through the efforts of Shri Bhaikaka and Shri Bhikhabhai Patel, the university campus was meticulously planned. Notably, land for the university's huge 86-acre campus was generously donated by a local farmer. Accredited with an ‘A’ grade by NAAC, SPU boasts outstanding faculty members, with alumni networks extending across India and beyond.

Dr. Patel elaborates that since 2015, SPU has developed associations with several colleges to broaden opportunities for students. Regular updates and innovations in curriculum design, tailored to student interests, underscore their commitment to academic excellence. The university offers a diverse array of courses spanning Arts, Law, Science, Commerce, Management, Engineering, and Social Science. Recently, the medical branch was spun off into a separate college. With over 55,000 students across Anand and Kheda districts, 28 departments, 128 affiliated colleges, and 9 outreach centres, including a community science centre, museum, swimming pool, gym, and library, SPU has extensive infrastructure dedicated to student welfare.

Originally hailing from Kheda district, Dr. Patel's father, a primary school teacher, instilled in him a passion for education, inspiring his career path. Grateful for the guidance received from his teachers, he pursued higher education at Gujarat University, earning a bachelor's degree in Sanskrit from H.K. Arts College, followed by a master's degree with distinction, and a gold medal. Encouraged by a college professor, he embarked on a Ph.D. journey on ‘Nyaya Darshan’. Driven by a lifelong love for reading and learning, he emphasises the pivotal role of literature in shaping thoughts and actions.

When asked about his role models, Dr. Patel says he draws inspiration from his parents, particularly his father. Throughout his educational journey, his teachers have inspired and guided him to acquire knowledge and do something with purpose in life.

He admires the philosophical thought inherent in the lyrics of the Hindi song, “Sajan re jhoot mat bolo, Khuda ke paas jaana hai.”, which inspires him to be honest in life and also help others in achieving their goals.

Talking about his struggles, Dr. Patel acknowledges that he did not face any major struggle in his life and always embraced simplicity and contentment. He always aspired to live a simple life and got satisfied with whatever he was given by the grace of God.

His notable achievements include receiving a gold medal during his postgraduate studies, authoring and translating several books, and garnering recognition from the Gujarat Sahitya Academy and the Shankaracharya of the Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham for his contributions to Sanskrit literature. He got the opportunity to work with Professor Kapil Kapoor while he was writing the Encyclopaedia of Hinduism and had a  chance to cite how our Indian knowledge tradition is expressed in Sanskrit. His current tenure as vice chancellor marks another milestone.

Dr. Patel advocates in support of the principles outlined in the National Education Policy 2020, viewing it as a catalyst for national progress. Committed to its implementation, the university has introduced skill development courses and initiatives aligned with the policy's objectives. Emphasising holistic development, awareness campaigns targeting women, farmers, and the youth are regularly organised. Initiatives such as breast cancer and cervical cancer awareness programmes and vaccination drives for girls at the university demonstrate a proactive approach to community health.

Additionally, keeping in mind the farmers of the region, they also organise weekly agriculture markets to promote traditional and natural agricultural practices. And in 2023, which was the Year of  Millets, they introduced 52 stalls of millet seeds like ‘bajra’ and ‘jowar’ in their agriculture market. They also encourage youngsters through their courses and programmes to pursue entrepreneurship, startups, innovation, and to file patents, underscoring their commitment to national development.

Addressing the youth, Dr. Patel urges them to prioritise societal contributions alongside personal growth. Embracing unity in diversity, he calls upon citizens to collaborate towards a prosperous future, guided by the ethos of inclusivity and progress (Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas).