Author: blog

Daily Yogananda Webinar Guru Series shares the fascinating journey of some of the best brains of the nation from diverse fields through virtual interactions

Ronika Angelina

The daily Yogananda Webinar Guru Series, conceived to bring you some of the best brains from diverse fields through virtual interactions, has become a big draw. The webinars conducted through various online platforms, including YouTube Live, are getting hits even from those not associated with Shoolini University.

Among others during the past fortnight was a session with Sourabh Gupta, a well-known architect and designer who took the students through the fascinating journey of architecture and design, inspiring the audience to build a career in design.

Kunal Nandwani, CEO at Utrade Solutions and entrepreneur, gave valuable insights and effective tips on how to build a career. Rajendra Abhange, Chief Technology Officer at Gabriel, a global speaker, addressed enthusiastic future engineers of the department of engineering and technology, taking them through the history and evolution of automobiles, and the growing complexities and challenges in technology in the world of the automobile industry.

Vinay Kanchan, a brand storyteller, bestselling author, and innovation catalyst, shared that creativity needed “witty”, the wit of being creative, thus forming a pun word “CREATI-WITTY”. Wit, along with humour, can elevate ideas and infuse a sense of play in the thought process.

Namrata Joshi, noted film critic and cinema editor, The Hindu, discussed film criticism and film journalism in the time of COVID-19. She had an interesting conversation with Vikas Chandra, a Mumbai-based director, screenwriter and showrunner.

Subodh Kerkar, an artist, the founder of The Museum of Goa and a follower of Gandhian principles, narrated the story of Bapu through the lens of an artist, an idiom.

MR Madhavan, president, co-founder of PRS legislative research, a guru of legislature practices and policies, spoke extensively on the importance of Parliament reforms and highlighted some major reforms needed to make the key institution of democracy extra effective.

Anuj Sharma, CEO at Sportwizz Ltd, in his session, addressed the students’ curiosity, unfolding the sportive adventures, which most sports enthusiasts have in their minds.

Naveen Soni, senior vice president at Toyota Kirloskar Motors, revealed how big companies managed a crisis and worked towards nation-building. Beyond Corporate social responsibility, he spoke on what it took to provide for the larger cause of the economy.

Nandan Mishra, alumnus IIT Kanpur, founder of Algo8, Artificial Intelligence enthusiast and singer, took the audience on a fascinating journey of Artificial Intelligence through music. He spoke about the convergence of ragas with Artificial Intelligence.

All these Webinars can be viewed on Youtube – www.youtube.com/c/shooliniuniversityindia

Relevance of Shakespeare explained

Not just the daily webinars, students of various departments are also being exposed to experts from diverse fields during the period of lockdown so that they can make the most of the time.

The English Department of Shoolini University invited Dr Natasha W Vashisht to speak to the students on ‘The Relevance of Shakespeare Today’.?

Dr Vashisht, an Assistant Professor in the Department of English and Drama, University of Toronto, whose area of expertise is World Drama, said Shakespeare had travelled down the ages, across borders of time and space.

During her well-attended webinar, she focused on the undying popularity of Shakespeare and explained how there was something in his plays for everyone, even today.

In another such webinar for journalism students, well-known publisher Mr Sanjay Sethi explained the intricacies of publishing and the future of publishing in the modern era.

Another first from Shoolini University: Virtual Academic Council meet

Vishakha Thakur

In another pioneering step, Shoolini University conducted its Academic Council meeting online and took several significant decisions related to academics and research in the University.

The prestigious Council meeting, which was chaired by Vice-Chancellor Prof P.K. Khosla and conducted by Director (Academics) Dr Sunil Puri, was attended by about 30 members, including some external members.

It was decided at the meeting, which lasted for over three hours, that mid-term and end-term examinations would be conducted online, and practical examinations would be conducted once the campus reopens.

It was also decided that the new academic session would comprise virtual classrooms as well as physical classes for all the faculties of the University. The Council recommended that the facility of virtual labs would be created for practical subjects.

Another important decision the Council took was that in view of the coronavirus outbreak, the final viva voce of PhD students would also be conducted online and would include subject specialists from abroad. Online viva and meetings were organised to examine the thesis of PhD students and 15 students got their PhD degrees approved in the Council meeting.

The University is already conducting all classes through interactive internet tools, including those developed by Aaddoo, a software development wing of the University. It also decided to conduct online examinations from May 5.

“I am pleased to inform you that the University has gone totally online in its teaching and examination system,” said the Vice-Chancellor. “The Academic Council has decided that university would finish its academic session as per the academic calendar of the university, that is, positively by end of May,” said Prof Khosla, adding that the results would be out by June 10, so that successful final year students can qualify for jobs and higher studies.

The daily Yogananda Webinar Guru Series, conceived to get some of the best brains from diverse fields through virtual interactions, has become a big draw.

In the fascinating session with Yashodeep Deodhar, creator of 21Notes Valmiki Ramayan, we come to know about the relevance of Ramayan in the world of today and whether it is based on fact or fiction. Yashodeep read out some excerpts from the first Ramayan, which was published in Europe. The original edition of the Ramayan was printed and published in Paris from 1843 to 1867.

Talking about fact and fiction, if Valmiki just wanted to write poetry, why would he create a bullet point list? If this was just a thriller or war story, why war readers with a list of names. There are lists of all kinds, like “astrass” and “shastraas”. Out of 500 chapters, there are two chapters with just names, one after another. Giving an example, Yashodeep said, “I would like to take you to a place near Mumbai called Alora. There is a temple which was built out of a mountain and it’s a huge temple which took around 600 years to be completed.” He further added, “Inside the temple, right in the middle, there are two sides and two stories are painted on these two sides, which are Ramayan and Mahabharat.” If we think about it, were our ancestors so inspired by these stories that for 600 years they were chipping away rocks so that they could paint them into pictures of those stories? 

Yashodeep asked why Valmiki wrote Ramayan. “Because,” he said, “Valmiki wanted to set the highest example of good behaviour, the perfect human behaviour.” And today, bad behaviour in society is certainly a problem that we are battling. It was essentially called ‘Rakshasa Pravriti’ at that time. ‘Rakshasa Pravriti’ was prevalent then and is prevalent now. And in order to overcome that, we need an ideal of what is right behaviour and that is the ideal which Valmiki put in front of us.

If you replace the word ‘Dharma’ with some other phrase when you try to translate it in English, the phrase that fits best is ‘Righteous Behaviour’.?

‘Vanaras’ were one set of people, whose identity is largely misunderstood over time. The other set is ‘Rakshasas’. Very clearly in Valmiki’s Ramayan, ‘Rakshasas’ were not a different race. They were not only in South India or Sri Lanka. There was nothing geographical about it. In fact, the first ‘Rakshas’ was Tadka, a woman. She became ‘Rakshasi’. And that is what happens, people change!

“The important aspect is getting people to learn about how to learn, as learning is a lifelong process which never ends.”

Dinesh Singh is former Vice Chancellor of Delhi University, an inspirational speaker, Padma Shri, and a brilliant academician and internationally acclaimed mathematician. Choosing the topic, ‘Unleashing the Power of the Web,’ he began the Yogananda Guru Webinar Series by projecting the ambition of unlocking pedagogies and by utilising the online platform as a medium of learning and exploring.

Why did he choose such a topic? “Because,” he said, “We all seek and look for Gurus in our lives.” He wonders what exactly it means to find a great Guru and why he considers the Internet as the best Guru. All the power that it holds within reminds him of the sort of Guru we would all aspire to have.

Talking about the concept, he explained his thought process. “There is no Guru who can just give us enlightenment, a true Guru no matter who he/she is, can show us the way, sometimes inspire us, but the hard work has to come from each one of us and the Guru won’t do the hard work for us,” he elaborated. Internet is a big platform, one has to make the effort to be worthy of it and strive hard to be worthy of it, as it will reward us just as a true Guru would.

He suggested that people should try and approach the net, the web, the technology with a positive frame of vibe and with a sense of humility. “We must use it cleverly and very judiciously. A search engine with the right key words will offer us everything, exactly in the same way we must use our sense of abilities to realise what it has to offer us in good or bad way to find an exact medium and source for pursuing our learning process.

Dinesh emphasized the concept of learning, how one must learn, and learning as a life-long process. Quoting Ghalib, the great poet, he said, “Jana ki kuch na jana wo bhi ek umr mein” (Accept that we will never learn everything there is to learn in one lifetime).

He shared the best use of Internet by giving examples on how he gathered information about something specific by entering the exact words into the search engines and relying on authentic sources.

Well known Pakistani singer, Shafqat Amanat Ali Khan, who has delivered several Bollywood chart busters,shared hisjourney and gave glimpses of his geniusthrough some of the songs he rendered on the request of Shoolinistudents and faculty during the Yogananda Guru Web Series last week.

Shafqat, who joined the webinar from Pakistan, belongs to the Patiala gharana. Some of his biggest hits in recent times include ‘Mitwa’(Kabhi Alwida Na Kehna), “Ye Hausla” (Dor), “Allah wariyan” (Yaariyan), “Teri jhuki Nazar” (Murder 3), “Zindagi se” (Raaz 3), “Bin tere” (I hate Love Stories) and “Jaane kyun” (Always Kabhi Kabhi).

Besides he has sung for several albums. The highly acclaimed but equally humble singer shared details of his struggle during the webinar hosted by entrepreneur, author and creativity coach, Dr Ashoo Khosla from Abu Dhabi.

He recalled how his initial albums did not do well but he continued to put in hard work through riyaaz (practice) and ultimately got recognition following the release of his album ‘Sagar’.

He was highly impressed by a short video feature made on him by students and staff of Shoolini University.

In a subsequent message, Shafqatsaid he was delighted to interact through the webinar and said he would look forward to visiting the campus one day

Singer, lyricist, performer and actor, Jasbir Jassi, whose song “Dil Lae Gayee Kuri Gujarat Di”, propelled him to being one of the most popular singers in recent years, enthralled viewers with his songs at a special Yogananda Guru series webinar.Jassi, whose real name is Jasbir Singh Bains, is the heart
throb of millions and the songs sung by him are inevitably played at all functions – like marriages – particularly in north India.

Some of his most popular numbers are “Koka Koka,” “Laung Da Lashkara,” “Mahiya, Tere Thumke” and “Mel Karade Rabba.”

He has also rendered several Sufi songs. Speaking at the webinar, which was moderated by entrepreneur Komal Sharma Talwar, Jassi asked students to remain grounded and connected to one’s roots. Replying to questions during the live webinar, riyaaz (practice) is the key and he himself does it for several hours every day.

End-term exam plan

Theory part to be conducted online while practical examination to be conducted after special practical lessons over the weekends or extended University hours after lockdown is lifted.

All steps were being taken to ensure that students did not lose out on studies and special arrangements were being made to conduct end-term examinations online in view of the continued lockdown and curfew in the state, assured Vice Chancellor Prof PK Khosla.

He said the University would like to complete the semester on time so that students, particularly those in the final semester, did not suffer. Examinations would be divided into two parts: The theory part would be conducted online while the practical examination would be conducted after special practical lessons over the weekends or extended University hours after the lockdown is lifted.

In view of the closure of the campus due to the coronavirus outbreak, no festivities on the Foundation Day could be organised, but the Vice Chancellor greeted the students, faculty and the staff to mark the occasion. Prof Khosla said he was happy to share that the University had taken a lead over most other institutions in the country in quickly adopting e-learning through virtual classrooms.

Daily Yogananda Webinars to enhance learning experience

In order to enhance the learning experience of students, the University has also introduced daily Yogananda Webinars for students and faculty. Eminent persons from various fields throw light on subjects of their expertise through interactive media tools. Among those who have participated in webinars so far are former Delhi University Vice Chancellor Dr Dinesh Singh, former IAS officer and motivational speaker Mr Vivek Atray, film critic and technocrat Mr Pavan Jha and the 21Notes Valmiki Ramayan creator Yashoodeep Deodhar.

He said such webinars through Facebook Live and Youtube would be held six days a week. Thanking the students and their parents, as well as the faculty for cooperating during these difficult times, the Vice Chancellor said measures were being taken to ensure that other significant activities of the University, such as placements and admissions, continued smoothly.

Time for Shoolini 2.0 to lead the way to digital learning: Mr Vishal Anand

Greeting the students, staff and faculty of the University on the 16th Foundation Day, Founder and President, Mr Vishal Anand, said these were “challenging times and as always, we will take this as an opportunity to come out stronger as a team. It’s time for Shoolini 2.0, a fully digital University, to lead the path of digital learning.” He further stressed, “We must collaborate and work together more aggressively to empower our Institution and make it stronger.”

Priyasi Parmar  

Shoolini University has initiated a unique set of daily live webinars, under Yogananda Webinar Guru Series, aimed at bringing experts and professionals to share their experiences with the students and faculty of the University. The webinars are telecast live on various social media platforms like Facebook Live and YouTube.

All those watching and listening can interact with the guest speakers in real-time. The series began with Dr Dinesh Singh, former VC, Delhi University talking about “Unleashing the Power of the Web”. He explained how webinars had unlocked pedagogies by utilising the online platform as a medium of learning and exploring. He also underlined transdisciplinary and interconnected knowledge.

Mr Vivek Atray, a former IAS officer, author and TEDx speaker, spoke about success and its goodwill. Talking about enhancing various life skills that contribute to the making of a successful person, he focused on 3 big C’s: Calmness, Creativity and Communication.?

Mr Pawan Jha, a Hindi film music aficionado and researcher, explored the rich heritage of Hindi film music and made an interesting presentation on the evolution of music in the Hindi film industry. He highlighted trendsetters and how these drastically shaped music and musicians.

Mr Yashodeep Deodhar, creator of “21 Notes Valmiki’s Ramayan,” former consultant with McKinsey and a successful owner of Derrick Petroleum Services in the global oil and gas industry, delivered his lecture on the relevance of Valmiki’s Ramayan. He focussed on how Indian epics – The Ramayan and The Mahabharata – also engraved in the caves of Ajanta and Ellora, are a tribute to perfect human behaviour.

Mr Anirban Bhattacharya, an accomplished vocalist and musician mentored by none other than gurus like Pandit Ajay Chakrabarty and Pandit Birju Maharaj, spoke on the intricacies of music (raga) and its composition. He referred to some great Hindi films like Sur Sangam and Amar Prem which had a strong presence of Ragas in their songs. 

Mr Bobby D’Souza, a motivational speaker, addressed the audience on “Minds of the Strong”. He gave tips on how to develop a mind strong enough to cope with adversity. In essence, his talk was about his perception of analysing bad news, augmenting resilience and preparing oneself to battle fear by maintaining calmness. Mainly focusing on one’s control over the mind, he added: “Go through the crisis without letting a crisis go through you.”

An hour-long inspiring, stimulating and candid conversation with one of the most charismatic cricketers of all time, Yuvraj Singh.

Let’s go through the fascinating journey of his life, from a small-town chubby boy to India’s celebrated champion.

Let’s understand what motivates him, what drives him, the climb, the struggle, the fight against cancer, he shares it all! A young and conscious leader, a philanthropist, let’s hear from the warrior himself — Yuvraj Singh!

Impressed with the University endeavour of online classes, grateful parents share their views and suggestions.

Manish Malik
Shoolini University switched over to online classes within just a few days of the announcement of lockdown in the wake of coronavirus outbreak. There was no disruption in studies and students resumed regular lessons as per a fixed timetable. Impressed with the University endeavour, the grateful parents of students shared their views and suggestions. They were all unanimous that this initiative would go a long way in keeping the students constructively occupied and help save the semester.

Mrs Sonal Gupta, mother of Shriya Mahajan, a student of BBA (FY) expressed her “heartfelt gratitude to the University management for starting online classes for their students without any delay. Classes being conducted by the esteemed faculty members are effective and up to the mark. It does not feel that my daughter is missing out on her formal education,” she added.

Mr Pabitra Kumar Bishoyi, father of Kalpesh, a student of MSc Biotech (second semester), said online classes enabled students to remain in touch with academics. “We also heard about personality development classes and webinars being hosted online. This is an awesome initiative,” he added. 
Mr Subho Bhaumik, father of Anukalpa Bhaumik, a student of BSc Physics (second semester), said, “Online classes are a great help in keeping students busy in academics. They will compensate the loss in studies on the campus, so that students do not lose out on anything during the coronavirus outbreak.”

Dr Jagmohan Balokhra, father of Deepak Balokhra (MBA Quad 4), said, “At a time when everything is coming to a standstill, Shoolini University has made education a new thrill. The University faculty knows how to maintain the strength of their bonds with students.”

Mr Ramesh Chander Sharma, father of Shivani Sharma (ME eighth semester) and Aman Dev Sharma (ME fourth semester), said he was very impressed and happy with the University management and faculty for creating academic bonding with students through virtual learning and multi-disciplinary webinars.

Mr Navin Chandra, father of Yash Chandra, a semester 2 student of Journalism and Mass Communication, said he highly appreciated the idea of online classes that were engaging. His son was able to interact with teachers, unlike some other institutions, which merely sent a pre-recorded video of the specific class, he elaborated. 

Mr Madan Mohan Shandil, father of Haren Shandil, first year student of Hospitality and Hotel Management, said, “Mujhe khushi hai ki aisi paristhitiyon mein bhi University aur teachers bacchon ke future ke bare mein soch rahe hain. Aur aasha hai ki webinar bhi bacchon ki knowledge badhane mein bahut help karega.” (I am happy to see that the University and its teachers are thinking about the future of students even during these difficult times. The webinars too would greatly help in increasing the knowledge of students.)

“Marvellous job being done by the University. The management should also consider taking exams online, as the current problem is likely to continue for months,” said Mr Shailesh Pathak, father of Shwetamber Pathak, CSE eighth semester.

Mr Sunil Bhalla, whose daughter Samriti Bhalla is pursuing BSc in Yoga and Naturopathy, said Shoolini university was making great efforts by giving live lectures online. “This has enabled students to study well while staying healthy and safe. A big thanks to the teachers who are leaving no stone unturned for the betterment of our children,” he added.

Mr Parvesh Kumar, father of Sheetal, a student of MSc Biotech (fourth semester), appreciated the initiative taken by the University to engage students in studies by using online portals. “We thank Shoolini University for setting up a great example of digital India. Even during this difficult period of lockdown, Shoolini is keeping its students busy through online learning and making them utilise this time in the best possible way.

“Our daughter is in the final year of her degree programme and we were worried about her studies, but now we are reassured about her future,” said Mrs Deepika Abbhi and Mr Vimal Jeet, parents of Vanshika, a student of B Tech Biotech (SRP) eighth semester.

Mrs Leelamma Paul, mother of Caroline Paul, fourth semester student of Pharmacy, appreciated the efforts of the University in starting online education. She said apart from a few technical glitches, the virtual classrooms were running smoothly.

Mrs Shivani Gupta, mother of Mansi Gupta, a fourth semester student of Journalism and Mass Communication, said, “We are happy to see our child carrying forward her studies through these online classes and gaining additional knowledge through the Guru Series as well. The initiative of starting online classes not only keeps her busy but has also reassured all parents that studies would not be affected under any circumstances.” 

Mr Rajesh Kumar Joshi, father of Charul Joshi, a student of BSc (H) Physics second semester, said, “We chose Shoolini University for higher studies of my daughter because this University has made a name for itself in a short span of time. The introduction of online classes during coronavirus outbreak is a momentous step taken by the University management.