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Puran Meshram chose principles over power: Dr Vedprakash Mishra
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Nagpur: Had he compromised on his values, Dr Puranachandra Meshram could have easily risen to become a political 'star'. But he chose to walk the path of integrity and ideals — a path fewer tread, said Dr Vedprakash Mishra during a grand felicitation ceremony held in honour of Dr Meshram on the occasion of his 65th birthday.
Organised by the College of Social Work, Kamptee, the celebration took place at the Ravi Bhavan Auditorium in Nagpur. The event organised to felicitate Dr Meshram, former registrar of Nagpur University and a dedicated leader of Ambedkarite movement. He and his equally accomplished wife, Dr Rajshree Meshram, were felicitated with a shawl, a memento of Dr BR Ambedkar, and a scroll of honour.
Presiding over the ceremony, Dr Sharad Nimbalkar, former vice-chancellor of Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, hailed Dr Meshram as a rare individual who successfully bridged social divides.
"He possesses all the qualities necessary for people's leadership – political insight, administrative excellence, organisational skills, and an unwavering commitment to inclusivity. His expertise should be actively utilised in policymaking," Dr Nimbalkar said.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Vedprakash Mishra, chief advisor at Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, praised Dr Meshram's lifelong commitment to values.
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"Greatness that does not offer shade to others is of no use, like a palm tree that grows tall but offers no shelter. True greatness lies in generosity and responsibility – qualities Dr Meshram has embodied throughout his life. He could have climbed political ladders, but he chose principle over position," Dr Mishra remarked.
Adding to the tributes, Dr Shailendra Lende, head of Marathi department, NU, highlighted Dr Meshram's enduring contribution to post-Ambedkarite generations.
"He not only carried forward the legacy of the Dalit Panther movement but also ensured equitable representation of marginalised communities within the university system through bold, historic interventions."
Former MLC Prakash Gajbhiye acknowledged Dr Meshram as a guiding force in his own public life. "He has mentored many grassroots activists like me. His work for academia and society is not only remarkable but deeply inspirational."
Dr Anil Hirekhan, registrar of Gondwana University, Gadchiroli, noted the exemplary nature of Dr Meshram's academic journey — from working on daily wages to eventually holding the prestigious registrar's post. "His vision helped transform the university into a people-centric institution. At this critical juncture, the community needs him to take on a leadership role."
In a heartfelt reflection, Dr Rajshree Meshram spoke of her husband's balance between personal and professional life.
"Despite his demanding administrative responsibilities, he never neglected our family. His efforts ensured that our children received a strong educational foundation. He has fulfilled every role — as a son, father, brother, husband, and public servant — with grace and integrity."
Responding to the felicitations, Dr Puranachandra Meshram remained humble and reflective. "I never saw the positions I held as the goal of life, but rather as a means to ensure justice and equality.
My aim was to dismantle walls of discrimination and build a university rooted in the values of equity and inclusion. What matters to me is not how many years I lived, but whether I lived meaningfully and in harmony with my principles.
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The program also featured remarks from Dr Kadav, Dr Vandana Ingle, and Ashok Ramteke. The programme was compered by Dr Rashtrapal Meshram, with a vote of thanks delivered by Prof Jungari. The event drew a large gathering of professors, students, and well-wishers.
