BENGALURU, KARNATAKA — June 9, 2026 — The American University of Spiritual Science (AUSS) officially marked its global launch by hosting its inaugural special convocation ceremony earlier this week at the Shangri-La, Bengaluru. The landmark event celebrated the preservation of Indian heritage by conferring Honorary Doctorates (Honoris Causa) upon some of India’s most eminent cultural and spiritual luminaries.
In recognition of their lifelong dedication to Indian classical music, dance, and spiritual traditions, the university bestowed honorary doctorates upon:
- Padma Bhushan Madurai T. N. Seshagopalan (Renowned Carnatic Musician)
- Padma Bhushan Sudha Ragunathan (Celebrated Carnatic Vocalist)
- Padma Shri A. Kanyakumari (Legendary Violinist)
- Padma Shri Pratibha Prahlad (Distinguished Bharatanatyam Exponent)
The prestigious ceremony was presided over by Chief Guest B. S. Yediyurappa, former Chief Minister of Karnataka, alongside Dr. C.N. Manjunath, Member of Parliament. The degrees were formally conferred by Dr. Gireesh Kumar, M.A., M.Phil., Chancellor of AUSS along with G. Arvind Ramaswamy, Vice Chancellor.
Speaking at the convocation, Shri B. S. Yediyurappa emphasized the critical need to nurture and protect India’s spiritual knowledge systems, classical arts, and cultural ethos.
“Institutions like the American University of Spiritual Science play a vital role in connecting the younger generation with India’s rich heritage,” Yediyurappa stated. “By disseminating spiritual education, music, dance, and yoga globally, AUSS is guiding society toward a path of discipline, devotion, and cultural pride.”
Dr. C.N. Manjunath extended his congratulations to the AUSS board and the esteemed laureates, applauding the recipients’ invaluable contributions to society through the Indian classical arts and spiritual knowledge frameworks.
Outlining the core vision of the institution, Chancellor Dr. Gireesh Kumar highlighted that AUSS is dedicated to bridging ancient wisdom with modern global learning. The launch event beautifully mirrored this mission, featuring a vibrant curation of classical Indian music and dance performances.
Registered in Florida, USA, the American University of Spiritual Science designs its degree and certificate programs strictly within a religious-vocational and consciousness-learning context, focusing on holistic growth rather than scientific or medical qualifications.
