The NEP Saarthi Cell of Varun Arjun University (VAU), Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, organized an inspiring interactive session titled “Manthan – A Step Towards Mindfulness” on 2 July 2026 in the University Auditorium. The programme aimed to promote self-reflection, mindfulness, emotional well-being, and value-based professional development among students and faculty.
The first keynote address, “Roots Before Wings! The Importance of Staying Connected to Your Roots in the Medical Profession,” was delivered by Dr. Sandhya Chauhan, Professor, Department of Paediatrics, Shri Ram Murti Smarak Institute of Medical Sciences, Bareilly. She emphasized that excellence in medicine should be complemented by compassion, ethics, self-awareness, lifelong learning, and respect for patients and colleagues while maintaining balance in personal and professional life.
The second keynote address, “Life: Beyond Achievements, Towards a Meaningful Journey,” was delivered by Dr. Ruchi Khandelwal, Professor, Department of Pathology, Shri Ram Murti Smarak Institute of Medical Sciences, Bareilly. She highlighted that true success lies in purpose, authenticity, gratitude, meaningful relationships, mindfulness, and emotional resilience. The sessions were highly interactive, encouraging participants to reflect on balancing professional aspirations with personal well-being.
The programme was appreciated by Dr. Keshav Agrawal, Chancellor, VAU; Dr. Ashok Agrawal, Pro-Chancellor, VAU; Dr. Kiran Agrawal, Vice-Chancellor, VAU; and Dr. Lata Agrawal, Vice-Chancellor, BIU. Dr. Ashok Agrawal emphasized self-awareness and purposeful living. Dr. Ravindra Nath Shukla, Dean and Principal, and Dr. Anil Kumar Pal, Deputy Registrar, extended their support for the successful conduct of the programme.
The event was attended by Dr. Hanumat Bobade, Controller of Examinations and Pro Vice-Chancellor; Dr. P. S. Powar, Medical Superintendent; Dr. Deepak Oberoi, Director (Postgraduate Academics); Dr. Santhana Krishnan, Vice Principal and Director (Undergraduate Academics); Dr. Pradeep Singh, Principal, Varun Arjun College of Pharmacy; Heads of Departments, faculty members, administrative officers Mr. Siddhant Gangwar and Mr. Lalit Chauhan, and a large number of undergraduate and postgraduate students and interns.
The programme was coordinated by Dr. Poornima S. Bhat, NEP Saarthi Coordinator, with dedicated support from the SAARTHIs Mr. Giriraj Kirti Kishore, Ms. Sandhya Rani Gope, and Mr. Abhay Pratap Singh. Participants described the session as inspiring and transformative, reaffirming VAU’s commitment to holistic development, mindfulness, and value-based education.