Atlee gets Honorory Doctorate from Honorable Chancellor Dr. Mariazeena Johnson at the 34th Convocation Ceremoney held at Sathyabama University Campus

The 34th Convocation of Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology was held, in the Institution Auditorium, with the blessings of Founder Chancellor Honorable Dr. Jeppiaar. The convocation will be presided by honorable Chancellor Dr. Mariazeena Johnson, presided over the event in the presence of President Dr. Marie Johnson. Vice President Ms. Maria Bernadette Arul Selvan, Vice President Mr. J. Arul Selvan, and Vice President Ms. Maria Catherine Johnson.

Filmmaker Atlee was conferred with an honorary doctorate by the Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology in Chennai. This is the same university where he once studied and first dreamed of becoming a director.

The prestigious recognition was awarded during the 34th convocation ceremony held on Saturday, June 14, 2025. The university’s Chancellor, Dr Mariazeena Johnson, presented the ‘Jawan’ director with the honorary doctorate certificate and commemorative plaque in the presence of of President Dr. Marie Johnson. Atlee’s wife Priya, and his parents were also present making the moment even more special.

Atlee received the honor in recognition of his immense contribution to the Indian film industry at large, with his works gaining global acclaim. Starting with ‘Raja Rani’, Atlee went on to deliver massive hits including ‘Theri’, ‘Mersal’, ‘Bigil’, and the pan-India phenomenon ‘Jawan’ starring Shah Rukh Khan.

After receiving the honorary doctorate certificate, Atlee said, “It’s surreal to be honoured by the same university where I once walked in as a student with big dreams. It was here that I learned the power of belief.”

He gave an emotional shoutout to his family and shared, “My parents stood by me till I became a filmmaker. But the one who shaped who I am is my wife, Priya Atlee. And the person who’s made me a better human is my son.”

Talking about his film with Allu Arjun and Deepika Padukone, Atlee told the press on the sidelines of the convocation, “This is the most-expensive film, we are bringing in all the new technologies in it. In terms of budget, the producer has to decide, my work is to direct the film. As of now I am having big dreams for the project. It is going to make all of us proud.” he added.

Tentatively titled AA22 x A6, the film has gone on floors. It is produced by Kalanithi Maran’s Sun Pictures.

During this momentous occasion, 5031 a remarkable total of 4221 undergraduate students, 810 postgraduate students, and 79 Ph.D. scholars proudly received their degrees. Among these graduates, 54 exceptional students were recognized with gold medals, celebrating their exemplary academic performances and dedication to their studies.

The Placement Cell has continued its commitment to creating excellent Career Opportunities for its students during this academic year also. Our students were prepared to ensure that they are equipped to satisfy the ever-evolving demands of the industry. That attracted significant participation from leading companies across diversified sectors including, Information technology, Core Engineering, Finance, Consulting, Analytics and Research. 380+ companies visited our campus last academic year (2024-25), resulting in 92.74% of our students securing job offers through our Campus Recruitment Program. The average annual salary package offered was Rs. 5,70,000, with Amazon leading with a maximum package of Rs.41,20,000. The number of dream, Super dream and Elite offers continued to grow in numbers year after year. This year we have placed more than 40% of our students under these categories.

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