D.Litt Awardees

Dr M.S. Valiathan, acclaimed cardiac surgeon and visionary scholar, was awarded a D.Litt in 2021 by TDU for pioneering the field of Ayurveda-Biology. His work bridges modern biology and Ayurveda, transforming traditional knowledge through critical texts and cutting-edge interdisciplinary research

A.V. Balasubramanian, a leading voice in Traditional Indian Knowledge Systems, was awarded a D.Litt by TDU in 2021 for his pioneering work in Vrkshayurveda and revitalizing India’s medical heritage through research, publications, and farmer-led initiatives in sustainable agriculture

Vaidya Ramesh Nanal, renowned for his deep clinical insights and scholarly contributions to Ayurveda, was awarded a D.Litt by TDU in 2021. His work spans classical theory, tribal medicine, and innovative applications in agriculture, enriching Ayurveda’s practice and pedagogy for generations

Dr Ashok D.B. Vaidya, pioneer of Reverse Pharmacology and integrative biomedical research, was awarded a D.Litt by TDU in 2024 for his groundbreaking contributions to Clinical Pharmacology, Ayurveda, and Indian Knowledge Systems, shaping drug discovery, healthcare innovation, and scientific leadership across disciplines

Mr. Subramanian Ramadorai, celebrated IT leader and social visionary, was awarded a D.Litt by TDU in 2024 for his transformative contributions to industry, education, skill development, and cultural preservation, exemplifying a lifelong commitment to societal enrichment and global excellence

Prof. Sudha Gopalakrishnan, eminent cultural scholar and preservationist, was awarded a D.Litt by TDU in 2024 for her pioneering leadership in safeguarding Indian and South Asian heritage through manuscript conservation, digital archiving, and global cultural advocacy across institutions like Sahapedia and UNESCO

Prof. Patrick Whitney, global design visionary, was awarded a D.Litt by TDU in 2024 for his pioneering contributions at the intersection of design, public health, and societal well-being, advancing human-centered methodologies and shaping global strategies through research, education, and transformative leadership

Dr Soumya Swaminathan, renowned global health leader and scientist, was awarded a D.Litt by TDU in 2025 for her outstanding contributions to medical research, health policy, and global public health, notably through her leadership at WHO and advocacy for equitable, science-based health solutions

Dr Muralidhara Sharma, esteemed Ayurveda Acharya and clinician, was awarded a D.Litt by TDU in 2025 for his outstanding contributions to Ayurveda education, research, and ethical clinical practice, inspiring generations of students and serving the Udupi community with dedication and authenticity

Dr Vivek Raghavan, visionary technologist and digital architect, was awarded a D.Litt by TDU in 2025 for his groundbreaking contributions to AI, digital governance, and public service, including pivotal roles in Aadhaar, language AI, and Digital Public Goods for inclusive national transformation