Prof. Bhabendra Nath Deka, Chancellor of Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva Viswavidyalaya (MSSV)
A Journey shaped by faith, Resilience, and the Dedication.
Today’s educational leaders must be adept at navigating the complexities of digital transformation. This requires not only adapting to emerging technologies but also spearheading change management within their institutions. Modern leaders are expected to foster consensus and lead initiatives that bridge the gap between traditional educational practices and the evolving demands of the future. One such leader, with years of experience and unwavering passion, is the Chancellor of Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva Viswavidyalaya (MSSV). He guides the university in its pursuit of knowledge and wisdom, upholding both national commitment and a sense of international brotherhood.
From Humble Beginnings to Great Achievements
Prof. Deka was born into a middle-class family where both his parents were devoted followers of Eka Sarana Nama Dharma, worshiping the Almighty God Krishna. They revered Srimanta Sankaradeva, considering him an incarnation of Krishna. This belief was widespread in the village where Prof. Deka grew up, immersing him in a deeply religious and culturally rich environment from an early age. However, his childhood was marked by tragedy when he lost his father at a young age, a sudden and profound shock. Despite this loss, his father’s principles and commitment to social service, along with his mother’s pious and honest nature, instilled in Prof. Deka strong values and a sense of higher purpose.
Prof. Deka began his education at the village primary school and continued through to university, consistently showing respect and appreciation for his teachers. Reflecting on his career choice, he said, “Since my college days, I believed that teaching was the most noble profession one could pursue. This belief guided my choice of subjects during my college and university years, as I aspired to become a teacher.”
Although Prof. Deka has retired from his previous role, his years of hard work and dedication have led to his appointment as the Chancellor of Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva Viswavidyalaya (MSSV), a position he feels fortunate to hold. To him, Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva Viswavidyalaya (MSSV) is a dream university, and he leads it with the utmost sincerity, integrity, and commitment.
Building a Legacy
Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva Viswavidyalaya (MSSV) was established on June 10, 2014, under “The Assam Private University Act, 2007” by the Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha, a renowned socio-cultural, religious, and democratic organization in Northeast India. The university was founded on the ideals of Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva, aiming to be more than just a private institution; it is considered the people’s university of Assam. Prof. Deka has been a member of the Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha since 1980 and has actively participated in its Central Executive Committee since 1983, taking on various responsibilities. As a member of the Executive Committee, he played a significant role in the establishment of Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva Viswavidyalaya (MSSV), a highly ambitious project, especially for a socio-cultural and religious organization.
Despite facing numerous challenges from the start, a dedicated body named the ‘Srimanta Sankaradeva Education and Socio-Economic Development Trust’ (SSESEDT) was formed to bring this vision to life. Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva Viswavidyalaya (MSSV) was established under the Trust’s sponsorship. According to the university’s statutes, the Padadhikar (President) of the Srimanta Sankaradeva Sangha is appointed as the Chancellor of the university for a three-year term or as long as they hold the position of Padadhikar.
Prof. Deka was honored to be elected Padadhikar of the Sangha for two consecutive terms, from 2015 to 2019, and once again in 2023. As a result, he has had the privilege of serving as the Chancellor of Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva Viswavidyalaya (MSSV), a role he fulfills with honesty and dedication. Under his leadership, the university aims to develop both infrastructurally and academically into a center of excellence of international standards, providing comprehensive facilities to students and research scholars. Prof. Deka envisions MSSV producing graduates who are morally strong, spiritually aware, intellectually sharp, socially committed, and professionally skilled, becoming valuable human resources not just for their country but for the entire world.
On a Personal Note
Throughout his career, he found joy and freedom in the company of his students and colleagues, actively engaging in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities. Prof. Deka consistently maintained strong, cordial relationships with students, faculty, and staff, understanding the importance of integrating social responsibilities into his role as an educator.
In addition to his academic duties, Prof. Deka took on significant responsibilities in the socio-cultural and literary activities of the community. He firmly believes that every action and word should positively contribute to society. His commitment to the socio-cultural, ethical, and spiritual development of his community has been unwavering. Prof. Deka has continuously inspired people to embrace spiritual and humanistic values, aiming to make their lives meaningful.
Prof. Deka acknowledges the necessity of balancing various aspects of life, including professional, family, social, and spiritual dimensions, understanding that these spheres are interconnected despite their different responsibilities. He has been guided by the advice of Bharat Ratna Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, a renowned teacher and philosopher, once said, “Give your best in every sphere of life.”
Lastly, Prof. Deka credits his success in balancing his professional, social, and family life to the support of his wife, a woman of high artistic quality and dignity, whose encouragement allowed him to excel in his academic, social, and organizational roles.
