Gayatri Mantra Or Upanishad? IIT Alum Fact-Checks Shama Mohamed Over Convocation Chant | Education and Career News
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Shama Mohamed questioned why a religious chant was included at an IIT convocation, arguing that institutions should remain free of religious slogans and chants of all faiths.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 57th Convocation of IIT Delhi; Shama Mohamed (L)
A Sanskrit recitation at IIT Delhi’s 57th Convocation has triggered a debate after Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed questioned the inclusion of what she identified as the Gayatri Mantra at the academic ceremony. Mohamed said she had no personal objection to the mantra, noting that her cook plays it regularly and that she listens to it herself. However, she questioned why a religious chant was included at an IIT convocation, arguing that educational institutions should remain free of religious slogans and chants of all faiths.
Meanwhile, Gyan C Mehta, an alumnus of IIT Kanpur has challenged her identification of the verses. He said the verses are from the Shikshavalli of the Taittiriya Upanishad, a section concerned with education, learning and the relationship between a teacher and student. The passage includes the prayer, “Tan mm avatu, tad vaktram avatu,” seeking protection for both the student and the teacher.
The Shikshavalli deals with themes including truth, discipline, duty, respect for teachers and ethical conduct. Its themes are also associated with the ancient Samavartana tradition, which marked the completion of a student’s education and the transition to greater social responsibility.
“It is a shame to see you spreading this kind of bad-faith narrative just to manufacture division. It is blatantly obvious what you are trying to do by politicizing an academic celebration. Is this really not shameful for Congress?” Mehta posted on X.
I certainly don’t want to pick a fight with your cook, but the fundamental premise of your post is factually incorrect. What is being chanted is NOT the Gayatri Mantra—not that there is anything wrong with it. As a proud IIT Kanpur alum, it is frustrating to see this. 1/5 https://t.co/3fJdmuXI3S— Gyan C Mehta 🇺🇸🇮🇳 (@GyanCMehta) August 9, 2026
IIT Delhi held its convocation on August 8, with more than 3,000 students and 587 PhD scholars attending. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the graduates, focusing on education, research, innovation, technology and India’s future.
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August 10, 2026, 12:51 IST
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