A Journey of Wisdom, Discipline, and Well Being | Address by Dr. P. P. Devan at Yenepoya University
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
Yenepoya Institute of Arts, Science, Commerce and Management celebrated its Annual Day 2026, Yen Aura 5.0, with great enthusiasm and vibrancy at the YIASCM Kulur Campus on 12 February 2026. The event was graced by Mr. Amit Singh, IPS, Inspector General of Police, Western Range, Mangaluru, as the Chief Guest, whose presence added dignity and inspiration to the occasion.
Dr. P. P. Devan, Professor of ENT and Former Associate Dean, AJIMS, Mangaluru, honoured the gathering as the Guest of Honour, captivating the audience with his insightful address on life, career, communication, health, and values. The programme was presided over by Dr. B. H. Sripathi Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor, Yenepoya Deemed to be University, Mangaluru, and witnessed the esteemed presence of Prof. Jeevan Raj, Principal In Charge, Prof. Shareena P, Dean Faculty of Commerce and Management and Vice Principal, and Mr. Narayan Sukumar A, Vice Principal. Organised by the Student Council 2025–26 along with the staff and students, the event was a memorable celebration of talent, achievement, and collective spirit
Dr. P. P. Devan’s was a defining moment in the lives of young students standing at the threshold of their professional journey. The audience comprised energetic and talented students, devoted parents, and dedicated teachers who together form the foundation of academic and personal growth. Speaking from a lifetime of experience, Dr. Devan shared lessons drawn not only from success, but also from careful observation of failures, challenges, and realities of life.
The Importance of Silence at the Start of a Career
Dr. Devan began by emphasizing that the early phase of any career demands caution and awareness. At this stage, every individual is under constant observation. Words spoken casually can carry long lasting consequences. He explained that while mistakes in action can often be corrected, careless speech, especially against authority, can permanently damage professional prospects. Silence, he reminded the students, is a powerful form of discipline and an essential quality in the formative years of one’s career.
Language as the Foundation of Professional Success
One of the strongest messages of the address centered on mastery of language, particularly English. Dr. Devan shared a personal example involving his twin sons who were pursuing management studies. Instead of advising them to focus solely on grades, he encouraged them to learn one English word each day, to understand it thoroughly, pronounce it correctly, and use it with precision. Over time, this simple practice builds confidence and clarity.
He explained that professional selection often depends less on academic performance and more on communication skills. Clear expression, correct pronunciation, proper sentence structure, and confident delivery significantly influence how a candidate is perceived. Dr. Devan urged students to use their academic years to gain complete command over English, describing it as an indispensable tool for long term success.
Striving for Excellence Through Continuous Reinvention
Dr. Devan challenged the students to rise above mediocrity. In an increasingly competitive world, being merely competent is no longer sufficient. He stressed the need to aim for excellence and to constantly reinvent oneself. As careers progress, new challenges emerge and old skills become outdated. Those who fail to adapt are quickly overtaken by younger and more efficient professionals. Continuous learning, adaptability, and self-improvement, he said, are the keys to remaining relevant and respected.
The Role of Emotional Intelligence and Networking
While academic life rewards intellectual ability, Dr. Devan pointed out that professional life places equal emphasis on emotional intelligence. The ability to interact respectfully, communicate effectively, and build positive relationships determines long term growth. Beyond this, he highlighted the critical role of networking. In times of uncertainty, it is often relationships that provide opportunities and support. Building meaningful connections and maintaining professional networks can safeguard careers during challenging periods.
Health as the Greatest Form of Wealth
Turning to health, Dr. Devan reminded the audience that no level of success can compensate for poor health. Drawing from medical research and clinical experience, he spoke about the rising incidence of heart disease, strokes, and cancer in modern society. He emphasized the importance of preventive care, particularly through proper nutrition and lifestyle habits.
He explained the protective role of green leafy vegetables in maintaining heart health, highlighting the importance of folate in reducing coronary artery blockages. Traditional diets once provided these nutrients naturally, but their absence in modern diets has contributed to the growing burden of cardiac disease.
Preventing Stroke Through Simple Daily Habits
Dr. Devan addressed the alarming increase in stroke cases, even among younger individuals. He explained that humans lack the ability to synthesize ascorbate, unlike animals, making them more vulnerable to strokes. Based on his experience, adequate intake of vitamin C significantly reduces this risk. He recommended simple preventive measures such as consuming fresh lime juice daily, stressing that strokes are among the most devastating yet preventable medical conditions.
Vitamin D and Protection Against Cancer
Addressing the growing number of cancer cases, Dr. Devan pointed to widespread vitamin D deficiency as a major contributing factor. Modern lifestyles limit exposure to sunlight, leading to weakened natural defense mechanisms. He urged students and faculty alike to recognize the importance of sunlight exposure and vitamin D supplementation as essential components of long-term health and disease prevention.
Humility as the Engine of Lasting Growth
As he neared the conclusion of his address, Dr. Devan spoke about humility as the driving force behind sustained success. He compared personal growth to a rising balloon, emphasizing that true ascent comes from inner qualities rather than external display. Humility, he said, removes barriers, invites learning, and allows unlimited growth.
Wealth, Giving, and the Meaning of Fulfillment
Dr. Devan acknowledged that dedication and hard work can lead to financial success. However, he emphasized that true fulfillment comes from sharing wealth rather than accumulating it endlessly. Giving a portion of one’s earnings to friends, colleagues, and well wishers creates balance and joy. Money spent on maintaining health and supporting others, he noted, is far more valuable than money lost to preventable illness.
A Message That Extends Beyond the Auditorium
Dr. P. P. Devan’s address at Yenepoya University was a thoughtful reflection on life, career, health, and values. His words offered practical guidance and timeless wisdom to students preparing to enter the professional world. His message kept the audience inspired, informed, and better prepared for the journey ahead.
