15 Apr 2025, Amritapuri Ashram – at Amrita Innovation & Research Awards
Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman of ISRO and Secretary, Department of Space, delivered a deeply inspiring keynote address at the Amrita Innovation & Research Awards (AIRA) 2025, held in the divine presence of Amma, the Chancellor of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham. Describing the occasion as “a great divine gift,” Dr. Narayanan shared his journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of India’s space program. Earlier, he presented Amma with a small model of the satellite used in Chandrayaan-3, India’s lunar mission.
Recalling his early days, Dr. Narayanan spoke of his modest upbringing in a remote village in Kanyakumari district, where he attended a small 15×7-foot classroom. Despite financial struggles, his parents ensured that all six of their children pursued education. He joined ISRO not with an MTech or PhD, but with a diploma, beginning work at the age of 18 to support his younger brother’s education.
“My journey was shaped by grit, values, and divine grace,” he said, reflecting on his rise from a diploma holder to earning a PhD in aerospace engineering. Today, the very cryogenic propulsion systems he researched are used in India’s human spaceflight program.
Dr. Narayanan credited his mentors and family for molding his path, stating, “Whenever I sit in front of my teachers, I see God through their faces. And today, in Amma’s presence, I truly feel I am before the Divine.”
He further highlighted India’s remarkable transformation over the past decades, from a nation struggling with widespread hunger to becoming the world’s fifth-largest economy. He also detailed ISRO’s inspiring journey—from moving satellite parts on bicycles and bullock carts to achieving record-setting space missions, including the Chandrayaan-3 soft landing near the Moon’s south pole.
As he concluded his speech, Dr. Narayanan made a heartfelt request to the audience: “Whenever you pray, even for one or two seconds, think of us. Think of the Indian space program. Your blessings matter.”
With folded hands and a heart full of gratitude, he added, “Let us all work together—with this great divine gift, with the blessing of the Almighty—to contribute to global citizens and make India a developed country before we celebrate 100 years of Independence.”
The powerful words from Dr. Narayanan, filled with humility, dedication, and devotion, moved everyone to tears. The audience gave him a standing ovation, recognizing the profound impact of his journey and his contribution to the nation. His presence on stage was a living example of Amma’s teachings on uniting head and heart to become a true, complete human being.
-Kannadi