In the world of higher education, strong and visionary leadership is essential for institutions to not only survive but thrive. Vice-Chancellors in particular operate as those epitomes of transformational leadership, making significant contributions to the advancement of their institutions. Prof. (Dr.) Abhijit H Joshi is one such personality who through his dedicated efforts towards innovation, is heading Desh Bhagat University as the current Vice-chancellor, ensuring the university remains at the forefront of educational excellence.
From the Scratch
Born on June 20, 1976, Prof. (Dr.) Abhijit Hanmant Joshi is an academician and researcher specializing in Sanskrit, Ayurveda, and Yoga. Raised in the rural Sangli District of Maharashtra, he received his early education at the Zilla Parishad School and later earned his D.Litt from an international university.
A disciple of Shree Shankaracharya Peeth in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Prof. Joshi studied the Vedas through traditional Sanstha and Gurukul methods. Influenced by his father and the teachers who guided him during his formative years, he developed a leadership style rooted in vision and positivity.
Advancing Ayurveda and Traditional Knowledge Through Innovative Research
Prof. Joshi is deeply committed to research, dedicating much of his time to guiding students and exploring the application of Ayurveda’s basic principles through modern scientific techniques. He has conducted systematic experiments on the effects of Vedic mantras on health and demonstrated their efficacy in treating various ailments. This innovative approach eventually led him towards the development of ‘No Drug Therapy’ for treating conditions such as hypertension, anxiety, and infertility. His contributions to the field of Sanskrit earned him the Presidential Award in 2018, and he is highly regarded in his academic field, holding senior positions in various government and non-government organizations. Also, he holds four world records in Ayurveda, Yoga, and Nutrition.
As the Vice-Chancellor of Desh Bhagat University
To gain a deeper understanding of Prof. Joshi’s role as the Vice Chancellor of Desh Bhagat University, we interviewed him and posed a few key questions. When asked about his primary responsibilities as Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joshi explained, “The role of a Vice Chancellor involves upholding the mission and vision of the university. At DBU, I have led initiatives that have set us apart from our competitors.” He further added, “I am also actively involved in fostering and maintaining strong relationships with the university’s stakeholders, building robust academic networks, and establishing industry connections, all of which play a crucial role in providing students with essential career opportunities.”
When discussing the future he envisions for DBU, Prof. Joshi stated, “Having achieved our goal of securing an A+ grade from NAAC, we now aim to become the first choice for students at the state, national, and international levels.” He also highlighted DBU’s commitment to adapting and thriving amidst rapid technological changes by maintaining an open mind toward learning new things. Additionally, he emphasized plans to initiate exchange and twinning programs for students and faculty, expand focus on distance and online education, and establish new off-campus centers to further benefit students.
On a Personal Note
Prof. (Dr.) Abhijit Hanmant Joshi is an eloquent orator with a rich experience of over 20 years in teaching and research. He is passionate about interacting with people, traveling, and connecting with his favorite Marathi authors through audiobooks. His extensive experience has earned him a place on various prestigious academic committees and research boards in India and abroad.
Prof. Joshi believes that work is just a part of life, not the entirety of it. For him, work-life balance means prioritizing different aspects of life at various stages. He has established clear boundaries between his professional and personal life, understanding that neglecting his own needs would affect his performance at work. To maintain his well-being, he engages in activities like meditation and socializing, which nourish both his mind and body, allowing him to approach his work with renewed energy. He also delegates tasks to colleagues and assistants who share his interests, helping to reduce stress. Prof. Joshi spends his weekends and holidays with his family, valuing these moments of connection.
