Devotion to God is the duty of virtuous individuals.
Devotion to God is the duty of virtuous individuals.
Prof. (Dr.) Dharmendra Mehta is an Professor and Director of Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Business Management, Ujjain which operates under Vikram University.
Established in 1957, Vikram University is a prominent public university in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, known for offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines, including arts, science, commerce, and management.
Prof. (Dr.) Mehta proudly highlights that Vikram University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in India. This historic institution has provided a rich academic environment on the sacred land of Ujjain, where Lord Jagat Guru Shri Krishna received education from his guru. Prof. Mehta has dedicated over two decades to this esteemed institution.
The university has cultivated generations of management gurus recognized nationally and internationally for their research expertise and high-quality teaching, says Prof. Mehta. In fact, Prof. (Dr.) Mehta himself is an alumnus of Vikram University, where he excelled academically, topping his MBA class and earning a Post Graduate Diploma in Personnel Management and Industrial Relations. He passed the UGC NET on his first attempt with a high rank and subsequently earned a Ph.D. in Management Sciences.
Prof. (Dr.) Dharmendra Mehta shares that under the leadership of the current Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Akhilesh Kumar Pandey, a distinguished botanist, Vikram University has introduced numerous new courses in recent years. These include faculties in Biology, Arts, Law, Food Technology, Forensic Science, and Agricultural Studies. The university also boasts 31 well-equipped study halls catering to undergraduate, postgraduate, and research students. Unique to this institution is the preservation of Vedic Astrology, Vedic Science, Vedic Mathematics, and Sanskrit. Additionally, they have implemented Forensic Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, and new UG-PG programs under NEP 2020.
Prof. Mehta emphasizes the university's goal of integrating new technology with traditional education. He informs us that the 'School of Studies in Ancient History' houses historical manuscripts and artifacts. He proudly states that the university’s motto, "Shiksha Amrit Vrikshate," translates to "Education is considered as nectar," reflecting their pursuit of educational excellence. The University also attracts international students, including many from Africa, highlighting its global appeal.
Sharing more, he says that Vikram University has produced many esteemed educators, including Professor Nageshwar Rao, the current Vice-Chancellor of Indira Gandhi National Open University and Professor P.K. Singh, the current Director of IIM Tiruchirappalli. The university also takes pride in its alumni Professor Karunesh Saxena, who is currently the Vice-Chancellor of Sangam University, Bhilwara, Professor P.K. Jain of Mohanlal Sukhadia University, and Professor P.S. Tripathi, now at BHU Banaras. Others include Professor Arjesh, who moved to the USA, Professor D.D. Meena, and Professor Deepak Gupta, the Chairman of the Board of Studies and an AICTE Career Award recipient and an FCA. The Dean, Professor Dr. Kamna Sultan, has also contributed significantly to Vikram University. Professor Rajkumar Jain, an ISI alumnus, served as Director until 2006.
Many other distinguished faculty members have been part of the Vikram University, Ujjain, including Professor Sanjay Dubey and the former Vice-Chancellor of Barkatullah University, Professor Ravindra Kumar Jain. Professor P.K. Verma, also a former Vice-Chancellor of Barkatullah University, served as Chairman and Director General of the Madhya Pradesh Council of Technology. Dr. Bediya currently directs IQAC, and Dr. Sachin Rai, an Associate Professor, oversees all placement activities. Dr. Nayantara Damor is also a valued faculty member at FMS, Ujjain. Prof. Mehta commends the excellent technical team and senior technical faculty member Rakesh Khoti, which contributes to the institute’s rich legacy.
Prof. (Dr.) Dharmendra highlights the excellence of both the teachers and students at the institute. The alumni, who have graduated from here, are distinguished and have made their mark across various fields, spanning from 'A' to 'Z'. These students are working in the corporate sector, service sector, and holding high positions, thereby bringing glory to both the country and the institute.
Dr. Dharmendra shares a memorable encounter during the launch of his book, "Communication Skills," where he met the former President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Recounting this incident, he recalls Dr. Kalam advising him to teach life skills to students, a piece of advice he treasures deeply. This meeting took place at IIM Indore, where Dr. Dharmendra had requested to meet Dr. Kalam, who graciously agreed. This experience profoundly inspires him and motivates him to maintain a connection with students and teach them the art of living.
In his message to the youth, Prof. (Dr.) Dharmendra warmly invites students to the city of Ujjain, a place where Lord Krishna learned sixty-four arts. He encourages students and their parents to experience the educational heritage of this 5000-year-old city and to enhance their skills and character development.
Talking about his personal journey, Prof. (Dr.) Dharmendra mentions that he did not face significant struggles in life due to the unwavering support of his parents. He imparts to his own children that learning negates the concept of struggle, and only when one stops learning does struggle begin.
Prof. Dharmendra Mehta acknowledges the constant support of his seniors throughout his career. He emphasizes the importance of team learning over individual learning, stating that working with a team leads to quicker and more effective learning. This principle of team learning has been a cornerstone of his life, allowing him to avoid major struggles.
He fondly shares three unforgettable events in his life: clearing the UGC NET without any coaching, having his book touched by Abdul Kalam, and the online interactions with chess grandmaster Viswanathan Anand and India's Warren Buffet, Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, during an online program. These experiences hold a special place in his heart and continue to inspire him.
Prof. (Dr.) Dharmendra's reflections on his journey, his inspirations, and his message to the youth resonate with the legacy of Ujjain, inviting future generations to embrace education and personal growth.
Lastly, he says, “ नीरत निरंजन सज्जन धर्मः।” which means — The righteous person (Sajjan) is dedicated to the pure Divine (Niranjan).
In conclusion, Prof. (Dr.) Dharmendra Mehta emphasizes that Vikram University remains dedicated to fostering academic excellence and nurturing future leaders. With a rich history and a strong commitment to quality education, the university continues to inspire and support students and faculty in their pursuit of knowledge and success.