: N Gopalswami, former Chief Election Commissioner was today conferred an Honorary Doctor of Letters by Sastra University.
Udayalaur Kalyanaraman, renowned 'namasangeerthanam' scholar and archealogist and temple historian Kudavayil M Balasubramanian were also conferred the DLitt at a function at the university here tonight.
Badrinath, Chairman Emeritus of Sankara Netralaya, Chennai, delivered the convocation address and conferred the D.Litt to the three of them.
Gopalswami said his grandfather and had told him to be straightforward when he sought his blessings. Others who were intellectuals and are straightforward were also his mentors like his grandfather. "I learnt lessons from all," he said.
The former CEC said an institution should aspire for merit, which Sastra was doing without fear or favour.
Kalyanaraman said Namasangeerthanam, irrespective of caste and religion, brings in national integeration.
This was achieved by Sathguru Swamigal in the 17th century by collecting all songs from different languages.
Balasubramanian said the shrines here are his temple of learning and he would work to reach the next generation and make them know about Indian culture and tradition.
