Amidst the AI-driven dynamic scenario, Shankar Muralidharan emphasizes upskilling and upgrading to make students employable. He also promotes aspects and subjects less affected by AI like sociology, psychology and policy advising among the students of his university.

Shankar Muralidharan serves as a Director and Strategist at Avantika University, Ujjain, where he brings visionary leadership and strategic insight to drive the institution’s growth and innovation.

Muralidharan describes his experience at Avantika University as the most wonderful chapter of his life. He proudly highlights that Avantika University is part of the esteemed MIT Group of Institutions, which was established four decades ago. Unlike many institutions founded by politicians or businessmen, Avantika University stands apart, having been founded by an academician. The visionary founder of the University, Prof. Vishwanath D. Karad, dedicated nearly two decades of his career to Pune University before embarking on the path of establishing his own educational institutions.

Muralidharan shares that after gaining over 40 years of experience and establishing a strong presence in Maharashtra, the MIT management decided to expand beyond the state. This vision led to the foundation of Avantika University in Ujjain, marking the first initiative of the Maharashtra Institute of Technology (MIT) Group, Pune, outside of Maharashtra.

He emphasizes that MIT has consistently been recognized as the number one Design School in the country, with institutions like MIT Institute of Design, Pune and MIT Institute of Design, Ujjain (Avantika) leading the way. He proudly highlights that they are the top-ranked private Design schools, having pioneered the introduction of Design education across various disciplines — a model that many other colleges and institutes later followed.

Director-Strategy Shankar Muralidharan shares that he has been entrusted with the responsibility at Avantika University to elevate various programs — including Engineering, Management, Law, Public Policy, Sociology, Psychology, Economics, MBA, BCA, and other non-design disciplines — to the highest standards of excellence. The goal is to secure the top position in Madhya Pradesh and rank among the top 30 global institutions by 2030. He mentions that Avantika Institute of Design was founded a decade ago, shortly after the Kumbh Mela in Ujjain, and by the next Kumbh in 2028, the university aspires to become a leading institution in Ujjain.

Strategist Shankar Muralidharan, shares that the institution has already begun taking significant steps toward its vision. Recently, one of his former colleagues — an MBA graduate from Harvard, with experience working at Apple and Google in the USA and Singapore, and currently associated with the United Nations — visited Avantika. A close friend of Tim Cook and an acquaintance of leaders like Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates, as well as someone who had the opportunity to work with Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, this distinguished professional, traveled from Delhi to Avantika University, Ujjain, to engage and interact with over 100 students.

Prior to this, the former CEO of the Times of India Innovation Lab was also invited to Avantika University to interact with and mentor the students. Muralidharan, along with the management team at Avantika University, is actively taking significant steps to broaden the mindset and unlock the potential of students by connecting them with experienced, creative, and highly successful individuals. He mentions that positive changes are already underway, with plans to invite over 20 corporate CEOs — leaders holding influential and prestigious positions — to engage with and inspire the students.

Director Muralidharan emphasizes that we are currently living in the age of Artificial Intelligence. He shares an anecdote from a friend, a CEO at a large enterprise, who told him that tasks which once required the work of 500,000 software programmers or chartered accountants over three months can now be completed by ChatGPT's latest version in just 12 seconds. Reflecting on his own experience with C++ programming from 25 years ago, he acknowledges that this is the world we live in today, and we must embrace these advancements.

He highlights that a quick Google search will reveal that a large number of engineers, MBAs, and other graduates are unemployed, primarily due to the rapid adoption of AI. He explains that this shift calls for a re-evaluation of career paths, pointing to emerging industries like Space Tourism and innovative dairy product development, such as producing paneer from milk powder, which is in high demand in many regions. At Avantika, the goal is to make the institution 'AI-proof' while also embracing AI. To achieve this, they are inviting top Artificial Intelligence experts to teach both Design and Engineering students. The university plans to incorporate cutting-edge technologies and new-edge methodologies to elevate students' learning experiences. These are some of the key reasons the management brought Shankar from Pune to Ujjain.

With a spectacular background in teaching, Shankar Muralidharan reflects on his extensive path in the field, spanning over 23-24 years. He shares that for nearly half a decade, he contributed to Flame University, and before that, he worked at Woxsen Business School. His career also took him to an IMS Learning Center in Mumbai, one of India's leading coaching institutes, where renowned educators like Byju Raveendran were part of the faculty. These varied experiences have significantly influenced his educational philosophy and dedication to advancing innovative learning methods.

Before delving into Education & Teaching, Shankar Muralidharan began his career in the software industry as a programmer. Reflecting on his life, he points out that a question that has remained consistent over the years—whether asked 60 years ago, 20 years ago, or even today—is, "What after 12th, and what will you be doing in life?" He notes that many people still struggle to find a clear answer to this question. Shankar emphasizes that, in earlier times, the answer was more evident, but the mindset shift brought about by the British colonial era altered the approach to life and work, particularly fostering a culture of service rather than ambitions of self- employment.

Director of Strategy at Avantika University Muralidharan reflects on the evolution of global education, pointing out that today, institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, the London School of Business, and the London School of Economics are considered the top universities in the world. However, he contrasts this with India's rich educational heritage, which boasts the legacy of ancient centers of learning such as Gurukul, Avantika, Nalanda, and Takshila—universities that were the best in the world over 5,000 years ago. He emphasizes that the Gurukul system and the Indic methods of education used during that time were so effective that they could predict the future professions of students. Shankar also highlights a significant shift in the present, where Indian students, once the most focused in the world, are now among the most confused.

Muralidharan points out that only a few individuals truly have a clear idea or conviction about their life’s path, while the majority of students or people remain uncertain about what to do after 12th grade or which profession to choose. He confesses that he was once one of those students. He recalls how a software company came for campus placements, and he secured a job there. Muralidharan mentions that he excelled in the role, proving to be a competent salesperson for the company alongside his work in software programming. However, despite his success, he felt a strong desire to pursue something else in life.

Reflecting on his career, Muralidharan explains that the reason he entered the field of education was simple: career counseling. He often says that the biggest challenge India faces is not corruption, COVID-19, or poverty, but the widespread confusion surrounding career choices. With a population of nearly 1.5 billion, he highlights that many students in India are uncertain about their future, which not only affects them but also creates confusion for others, potentially leading to greater challenges. He suggests that, to address this issue, we must take a step back and re-evaluate the way we approach career guidance.

Shankar Muralidharan notes that many of his colleagues and batchmates from prestigious institutions like IIMs and IITs are now working with large organizations such as McKinsey or Sydney Bankamong others. However, a few, including himself, chose to return to the field of education. His decision to come back was driven by a singular purpose: career counseling. Currently serving as the Director-Strategist at Avantika University, overseeing Engineering, Management, and Law programs, Shankar reflects that, despite his leadership role, he sees himself primarily as a career counselor. His mission is to guide and support students, helping them navigate their paths and make informed decisions about their future.

Career Counseling Expert Shankar Muralidharan emphasizes the growing demand for careers in fields like Psychology, Sociology, and Public Policy—areas where AI has limited impact. He points out that companies like Facebook are now hiring more people with expertise in Sociology than in fields like Law or Engineering. According to Muralidharan, it’s crucial for students in India to be aware of the diverse career options available to them, and he is working actively in the field of education and counseling to help guide students toward the right path.

He expresses his satisfaction that many educational institutions today are taking student counseling seriously, offering guidance on what careers students should pursue and why. He also highlights the importance of combining different fields of study, such as Mathematics with Music, Law with Psychology, or B.Tech with Music—career paths that are less likely to be affected by AI advancements and are more likely to create resilient and well-rounded career options for students.

Shankar Muralidharan reflects on how the generation born in the last 20-30 years has grown up with fewer struggles, as many things have been made more accessible and convenient. He shares a comparison between his own experience as a 12th-grade student and that of his father’s generation. In the past, people had to wait for years to buy a landline phone or a Bajaj two-wheeler. Today, however, the younger generation doesn’t even have to wait five minutes for a home or car loan. He humorously mentions how one American bank is offering a "Girlfriend loan" that can be obtained in five minutes using just a PAN card.

While acknowledging the conveniences that come with these advancements—cheaper flights to places like Singapore, more Indian restaurants in London, and easier access to loans—he also points out a negative side. Many Indian students today, despite becoming entrepreneurs and moving abroad, struggle to cope with challenges or with being taken out of their comfort zones when they are in India. Instead of facing these challenges, some become depressed or back out. Shankar believes this is where the importance of counseling comes into play. His personal mission, or "Counseling Satyagraha," is to guide students, helping them navigate difficulties and encouraging resilience in the face of adversity.

Muralidharan explains that at Avantika University, they make efforts to connect with as many students as possible—around 4 lakh—using platforms like WhatsApp groups. Through these, they organize counseling and profile-building sessions to support students. He highlights the involvement of experts like Siddharth Rajhans and Pamit Anand in counseling Avantika students and mentions that soon, high-profile CEOs will interact with students to guide them on future career possibilities.

He shares a piece of advice he often imparts to students: "Graduation is like marriage—do it late, but don't do it wrong." This philosophy is a key reason for his entry into the field of education. Reflecting on his career, he believes he has been making a positive impact in the education sector for the past 25 years.

Talking about his childhood, Shankar Muralidharan shares that he was born in a small town on the outskirts of Kolkata. He humorously notes that the village was so remote that even the neighboring village didn't have electricity. He shares that he lived through such conditions, experiencing life both with and without electricity. Later, his family moved to Kolkata, and living in Bengal taught him the value of relationships, emphasizing the importance of people over money.

He lived in Kolkata for about 8 to 10 years before relocating to Mumbai, which he describes was a completely different experience—representing two extremes of India. In Kolkata, love and relationships were at the forefront, while in Mumbai, money ruled. He mentions a saying about Mumbai: if someone were to lose a 100-rupee note on the street, they wouldn’t pick it up because the time spent bending to pick it up could be used to earn another 100 rupees. He describes Mumbai as the commercial capital of India, home to major celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan and business magnates like Mukesh Ambani.

He grew up in Mumbai, spending his teenage years there. He completed his schooling, graduation, and post-graduation in the city, which shaped his perspective and experiences. Mumbai, with its unique blend of cultural and commercial influence, played a significant role in shaping his understanding of both relationships and the importance of money.

Muralidharan shares a deeply personal part of his life, reflecting on the struggles he and his family faced after his father, who was in the defense services, was martyred during the Kargil War. He describes how his family, a joint family of 17-18 members, faced immense challenges after his father's demise, including family disputes and a lack of stability, such as not having a proper roof over their heads.

Despite those hardships, Shankar Muralidharan emphasizes that adversity in childhood—living with minimal resources—can instill strength and innovation in you. He believes that the challenges and struggles he faced during his formative years shaped him into the person he is today, fostering a mindset of resilience and creativity. He credits his innovative thinking to those early experiences, highlighting how overcoming such difficulties in his childhood made him stronger and more resourceful.

Shankar Muralidharan emphasizes that while he doesn't want today's students and children to face the same hardships he endured, he feels it's crucial for them to experience some form of struggle. Drawing from his time at Flame University and his current role at Avantika University, he highlights his efforts to create programs that offer experiences beyond academics.

For instance, he suggests that students should spend a week in a village with no electricity or visit the Ghats of Banaras. By immersing themselves in these environments, students would gain insight into the lives of people who are engaged in practices such as worship of the Ganga, or funeral ceremonies at Harishchandra Ghat. Shankar explains that these experiences would help students understand the human aspects of such work, like how much money people earn, whether they perform these tasks with sincerity, and what motivates them. He believes that these immersive experiences can provide students with a deeper understanding of life's simplicity, resilience, and spiritual practices—perspectives that are often overshadowed by modern technology and fast-paced living.

He firmly believes that extracurricular activities offer invaluable life lessons, and he attributes much of his own growth to such experiences. Reflecting on his childhood struggles, he shares how extracurricular activities shaped his understanding and resilience. One such example was when he took on the role of teaching junior students during his school years. Through this, he not only helped others but also learned valuable skills such as patience, leadership, and communication. He highlights that those formative experiences were crucial in his development and continue to influence his approach to both personal and professional life today.

Shankar Muralidharan attributes much of his personal growth to the unique environment he was raised in, particularly within a joint family. Having many family members around him allowed him to develop strong social skills and a solid value system. His mother, being a school teacher, played a significant role in shaping his perspective on life, offering him different lessons and memories that continue to influence him. Shankar expresses gratitude for the people who have been a part of his life and emphasizes one key learning: the importance of giving to others. He shares a well-known saying, "The one who gives is the only one who receives," underscoring the belief that generosity and selflessness are fundamental not just for personal growth, but also for creating meaningful connections with others.

Talking about Ujjain, Muralidharan says it is close to Indore, and mentions that there are notable similarities between Indore and Mumbai. He believes that cities like Mumbai, Indore, and New York are often recognized as the commercial capitals of their respective regions, but he emphasizes the importance of shifting the focus towards a more holistic approach. He suggests that now is the time to integrate humanity, values, and vision into the process of development, creating an environment that fosters a balance between commercial growth and social consciousness.

He shares that his experiences living in Kolkata and Mumbai helped shape this perspective, blending both the traditional and the modern. He stresses that people should begin thinking about entrepreneurship and renewal as a top-down process, where leadership and innovation are guided by strong ethical values, ensuring that progress benefits not just individuals but society as a whole.

Shankar Muralidharan emphasizes the importance of not just focusing on personal fulfillment, but also on how one can provide for others. He recalls a piece of wisdom from his grandmother, who always advised him not to go to the temple alone, but to take a small child along as well. This simple lesson, he says, underscores the idea of sharing, caring, and involving others in our life.

He believes that these small, seemingly insignificant experiences from childhood have a profound impact on shaping an individual. These critical life lessons, rooted in empathy and community, are what he tries to pass on to new students. Shankar sees these values as foundational to building a strong character and a compassionate society, and he aims to instill them in the students he mentors, guiding them not only toward academic success but also toward becoming thoughtful, giving individuals.

Muralidharan highlights the value of diversity in his life, stemming from his upbringing in a large joint family. This experience, he believes, helped him adapt to various aspects of life and understand the richness of diverse perspectives. He extends this concept to society, pointing out that people from different castes, creeds, colors, cultures, cuisines, costumes, and contexts coexist together, yet maintain a common consensus. This, he suggests, may be one of the reasons why India is the largest democracy in the world.

He underscores that embracing diversity is not just about tolerating differences, but about celebrating them and finding unity in shared values and goals. His belief in the power of diversity shapes his approach to education, where he encourages students to appreciate and learn from the diverse world around them.

Reminiscing about the valuable lessons he learned from his childhood, especially the importance of living together harmoniously despite differences, he acknowledges that while people may label this as secularism, the true essence lies in how we coexist and respect each other’s differences. For him, democracy is not just about agreement but about agreeing on how to disagree respectfully. He believes that this mindset—embracing differences and finding common ground despite them—was one of the strongest and most profound lessons from his childhood.

This experience, he says, has shaped his life and his approach to both personal and professional interactions. It is a principle he tries to instill in his students as well, emphasizing that the strength of any community or democracy lies in its ability to respect diversity and engage in constructive dialogue, even in disagreement.

Talking about his role models Shankar Muralidharan underscores the importance of role models in life, acknowledging that it is natural for students to look up to their parents as their role models due to the emotional connection they share with them. He emphasizes that emotions are essential in life, playing a significant role in shaping our decisions and experiences. He further explains that organizations, in essence, are playgrounds of emotions, where feelings and relationships matter greatly. However, he stresses that beyond these emotional bonds, it is crucial to venture outside your comfort zone and seek inspiration from external sources.

For Shankar, role models go beyond the immediate familial circle, and he believes that exposure to various influences and experiences outside your immediate environment can provide a broader perspective and guide individuals in making more informed decisions about their own paths in life.

Shankar Muralidharan expresses his deep admiration for Narayana Murthy, considering him his role model and the number one engineer in India. He highlights Murthy’s remarkable achievement of founding Infosys, the first Indian company to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Muralidharan praises Murthy for being the first middle-class Brahmin to venture into business and achieve such extraordinary entrepreneurial success, proving that even those born into modest circumstances can rise to great heights.

He further emphasizes Murthy's humility, noting that despite his immense wealth, Murthy still resides in a small flat, showing that true richness is not always about outward displays of wealth. For Muralidharan, Murthy exemplifies the idea that success is not defined by materialism but by one’s values, work ethic, and impact on society.

He remembers when, in a conversation with Murthy, he asked him about his biggest regret. Murthy’s response was simple yet profound: he wished that, alongside his technical education (B.Tech and M.Tech), he had also pursued a broader education in Liberal Arts, Humanities, Psychology, and Sociology. This is a view that Shankar Muralidharan strongly supports, especially in his work at Avantika University, where he encourages students to integrate such fields into their education, as they provide critical insights into human behavior, culture, and society, essential for becoming well-rounded professionals.

Shankar Muralidharan emphasizes that role models are not just sources of inspiration due to their successes but also offer valuable lessons through their regrets and mistakes. He believes that understanding the challenges and regrets faced by role models helps others avoid making the same errors, providing a clearer path to success.

He draws attention to the current trend in the tech industry, where even major companies like Infosys are looking to expand beyond engineering and embrace a more holistic approach that includes fields like Psychology, Sociology, and Literature. Muralidharan sees this as an essential shift, where engineering and technical expertise need to be combined with an understanding of human behavior, society, and culture. This, he believes, is what makes the integration of liberal arts disciplines into education so vital in today’s world. By blending technical skills with insights from psychology, sociology, and literature, students can be better prepared to tackle the complex challenges of the future.

Shankar Muralidharan also expresses a deep admiration for cricket legend Rahul Dravid, describing him as a strong role model for his humility and down-to-earth personality. He highlights how Dravid continues to stand in queues, displaying a level of simplicity that inspires many.

He also draws a comparison to Dr. Abdul Kalam, the former President of India and renowned scientist. When asked how he would like to be remembered, instead of focusing on his impressive titles such as Space Scientist, ISRO Scientist, Missile Man of India, or President, Abdul Kalam humbly stated that he wanted to be remembered as a teacher. This mindset, according to Muralidharan, reflects a profound commitment to the core values of education and selflessness, which he sees as an essential quality in true role models.

Shankar Muralidharan believes that great personalities, such as Rahul Dravid and Abdul Kalam, shape one's future through their values and actions. He acknowledges, however, that every great person has their weaknesses, and it is important to remember them for their strengths and positive qualities. Muralidharan emphasizes that when faced with the choice between hate and love, he has always chosen love. This, he feels, is the key message he wants to impart to young people, as it is a lesson he has learned from his role models. Choosing love over hate fosters positivity, growth, and a constructive approach to life.

When asked about quotes from which Shankar Muralidharan draws inspiration from, he mentions a soon-to-be-published book, titled Scholarship of Revolution, written by a friend of his. The book focuses on Bhagat Singh and offers in-depth research into his life. Muralidharan points out that while many people view Bhagat Singh as just a revolutionary who threw bombs and was executed at the age of 23, few recognize the scholar within him. Bhagat Singh dedicated himself to intense study, spending 18 hours a day in libraries, and this aspect of his character is often overlooked. This insight, Muralidharan emphasizes, is what makes the book unique and valuable, shedding light on the intellectual depth of one of India's most iconic freedom fighters.

When people asked Bhagat Singh that why he was seeking death in the age of getting married, he replied:

“इस कदर वाकिफ है मेरी कलम मेरे जज़्बातों से, अगर मैं इश्क़ लिखना भी चाहूँ तो इंक़लाब लिखा जाता है।”

Shankar says these lines are brilliant and resonate deeply with him, reflecting the intensity of commitment and passion. For Muralidharan, they symbolize a life with a specific goal, driven by passion and purpose. He highlights that it doesn't always matter if people reach their goals—many times, they don’t—but the path itself and the experiences gained along the way are what truly matter. This process, he believes, is where life unfolds.

He also reflects on historical moments like the Salt Satyagraha and India's Freedom Struggle, emphasizing that these were not just about achieving the end goal but about the powerful path and collective struggle involved. For him, true success lies in the pursuit and the values shaped along the way. Passion and dedication are key, as seen in the struggles of Mahatma Gandhi and Bhagat Singh, who both embodied commitment to their causes beyond any personal achievement.

He recalls a powerful quote from Maharani Lakshmibai of Jhansi:

“अपनी लाशों से हम तारीख को आबाद रखेंगे, वह लड़ाई हो, जिसे अंग्रेज याद रखेंगे।”

He emphasizes that even though the Maharani of Jhansi knew she was losing the battle, she spoke of the significance of leaving a legacy, a fight that would be remembered by future generations. Muralidharan reflects that today, we remember her courage and sacrifice, proving that true impact is not always about immediate success but about creating a legacy that lives on.

Shankar Muralidharan highlights that these quotes and the values they represent should inspire today's generation to strive for greatness. He believes that if young people live up to such ideals, the day is not far when India will rise to the level of global powers like America, China, Dubai, or Singapore — or even surpass them. He reflects on how India was once a dominant force in history, but over time, it lost its place. However, he strongly feels that now is the time for India to reclaim its position and rise once again. This vision of revitalization and progress, driven by the spirit of resilience and determination, motivates him to encourage the younger generation to act with purpose and passion.

Sharing his message for the aspiring students, Shankar Muralidharan emphasizes that we are living in a transformative time, specifically in 2025, which is vastly different from 2015, 2005, or even 1995. He points out that 20 to 30 years ago, simply obtaining a degree, whether in Engineering, Business, or other fields, from a decent college would have been sufficient to secure a job. However, this is no longer the case. He stresses that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not just another technological innovation like electricity, the telephone, or smartphones. AI, according to him, is a monumental shift akin to the discovery of fire.

He compares AI to the invention of fire, which, thousands of years ago, was discovered by humans, possibly by accident, and radically changed the course of history. Before fire, humans were vulnerable to predators and uncertain survival, but with the advent of fire, humans became the dominant species on Earth. The ability to control fire marked the beginning of humanity's dominance, as no animal could defend against it. In the same way, AI is changing the world — not just as a technological tool, but as a force that has the potential to reshape every aspect of life, work, and society.

Murlidharan’s message for students is that they need to understand and adapt to this new reality. AI is not just a trend; it is a game-changer, and those who fail to grasp its significance and learn how to work with it will be left behind. The future belongs to those who innovate, adapt, and understand the power of AI in reshaping industries, careers, and even human existence.

He elaborates that just as fire became a powerful weapon, whether in the form of bullets or cannons, AI holds a similar potential to radically impact the world. The effect of AI is already visible, with its capacity to alter industries and job markets. He points out the growing reality that, in the past two years, despite 15 lakh students applying for entrance exams at prestigious institutions for only 400-500 available seats, many still face unemployment.

He highlights that about 70% of students from top universities are currently unemployed, not because they lack education or potential, but because they are not employable. The core reason for this is twofold: firstly, the skills students possess are often outdated or misaligned with market demands, and secondly, AI has automated or eliminated many traditional jobs that were once available. As AI continues to evolve, it’s reshaping the workforce, making it increasingly important for students to adapt and acquire new skills that will make them relevant in this new era of innovation.

Shankar Muralidharan emphasizes the need for educational institutions, like Avantika University, and others across different regions of India, to inform their students about career opportunities that are "AI-proof." These are fields that, due to their inherently human qualities, cannot be easily replaced or replicated by artificial intelligence.

He mentions sectors like Space Tourism, where human creativity and adaptability are key, and Emotional Intelligence, which plays a crucial role in human interactions and decision-making. Additionally, industries like elderly care, particularly in old age homes, require a level of empathy, compassion, and understanding that AI cannot replicate.

Shankar Muralidharan emphasizes the importance of thoughtful decision-making, particularly when it comes to higher education. He advises students not to rush into decisions, especially regarding their graduation or post-graduation. Drawing a parallel to marriage, he says, "Do it late but don’t do it wrong." He explains that taking the time to make the right decision will ultimately lead to a more fulfilling and successful future.

He cites the example of a B.Tech degree, where, if possible, spending 2 years abroad within the 4-year duration can offer invaluable exposure and learning experiences. Even a short period, like 10 days, can be immensely beneficial. Muralidharan highlights that Avantika University, like other top institutions, has an International Relations Office, which creates opportunities for students to gain global exposure.

He advocates for programs like 2+2 or 3+1, where students spend part of their education abroad. The more exposure students can get to different cultures, perspectives, and educational systems, the more they will benefit. This global experience is key to broadening their horizons, enhancing their skills, and preparing them for a competitive, interconnected world.

Shankar Muralidharan highlights a key aspect of modern education—the distinction between technical knowledge and the deeper understanding of life that cannot be taught by machines or AI. He acknowledges that while AI systems like ChatGPT can effectively teach many academic concepts, there is much more to life than what books or AI can offer. Therefore, he emphasizes the importance of teaching students not only academic skills but also crucial life lessons that will help them navigate the complexities of the world.

Muralidharan shares two core principles he wants to instill in students at Avantika University: first, that no matter what happens in life, the sky will never fall, which serves as a reminder that, no matter how challenging life may seem, things will always get better, and obstacles are often temporary. Second, he teaches that life is not worth taking too seriously—while it’s important to be dedicated to one’s goals, life should also be enjoyed. Balancing seriousness with joy and a sense of fun is essential for mental well-being and success. These lessons are designed to help students from various disciplines—whether they’re studying engineering, law, business, or anything else—develop a deeper understanding of life’s broader concepts. Muralidharan believes that instilling this mindset will prepare students to face challenges with resilience and adaptability.

Looking ahead, he envisions Avantika University attracting more students from outside Madhya Pradesh, with the goal of having half of its student body from international locations by 2030. This reflects the university’s commitment to becoming a global institution that offers a well-rounded education, blending technical skills with life skills.

Shankar Muralidharan concludes his message by sharing an inspiring quote from Dr. Amartya Sen, the first Indian to win a Nobel Prize in Economics. When asked to describe himself, Dr. Sen responded with an incredibly detailed and inclusive description of his identity. He said,"I am Amartya Sen, I am Dr. Amartya Sen, I am an Asian, an Indian citizen, a Bengali with Bangladeshi ancestry, an American or British resident, an economist, a dabbler in philosophy, an author, a Sanskritist, a strong believer in secularism and democracy, a man, a feminist, a heterosexual, a defender of gay and lesbian rights, a Hindu with a nonreligious lifestyle, a non-Brahmin, and a nonbeliever in an afterlife."

He then humorously continued, sharing a description of his colleague who helped him win the Nobel Prize. She was an American citizen of Caribbean and West Indian descent, a woman, a liberal, a vegetarian, a long-distance runner, a jazz musician, a theatre lover, an environmentalist, a tennis fan, a heterosexual who also supported gay and lesbian rights, a believer in democracy and secular values, and someone who believed in the existence of aliens somewhere outside the Milky Way galaxy, with a preference for speaking to them in English.

Muralidharan highlights this as a profound statement on the richness and diversity of human identities. Dr. Sen’s response serves as a reminder of the complexity and interconnectedness of individuals and the importance of understanding and respecting the multifaceted nature of every person.

Shankar Muralidharan concludes by emphasizing that if Avantika University can instill the value of diversity in its students, alongside emotional and intellectual quotients, then it will have fulfilled its purpose in contributing meaningfully to humanity. He stresses that while creating jobs, fostering entrepreneurship, and securing funding are important, the most crucial aspect of education is helping students find meaning and value in life. By helping students realize this deeper purpose, Avantika University would have truly accomplished its mission, shaping individuals who not only excel in their careers but also contribute thoughtfully to the world around them.