Filmmaker Atlee conferred with honorary doctorate, mentions family and wife's support in emotional speech

While speaking at the convocation, an emotional Atlee reflected on his journey from being a student at the campus to receiving its highest honour.

Filmmaker Atlee, known for his work in films like Jawaan, Theri, and Bigil among others, was recently honoured with an esteemed honorary doctorate by the Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology in Chennai.

Atlee finds it even more meaningful because it is the same university where he first started his filmmaking career and developed his desire to become a director.

He received the honour on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the 34th convocation ceremony of the institute.

The significance of the event was doubled when Dr. Mariazeena Johnson, the university's chancellor, gave the Jawan director the honorary doctorate certificate and commemorative plaque in front of his wife Priya and parents in a genuinely moving and full-circle moment.

While speaking at the convocation, an emotional Atlee reflected on his journey from being a student at the campus to receiving its highest honour. During his heartfelt speech, he gave a touching shout-out to his family, acknowledging their unwavering support. “It’s surreal to be honoured by the same university where I once walked in as a student with big dreams. It was here that I learned the power of belief," he said.

His wife, Priya Mohan took to X and congratulated Atlee along with a video in which he is ben conferred with the honorary doctorate degree The caption read, "Can’t be more proud of you Dr.Atlee. God bless."

Love u papa will make u more proud https://t.co/HX7H8UFTrQ
atlee (@Atlee_dir) June 15, 2025

Actor Allu Arjun with whom he is teaming up with for his next grand film, also extended his hearty wishes to the director for his latest achievement. He also shared a photo as Atlee received his certificate and wrote, "Big congratulations to @Atlee_dir garu on receiving the honorary doctorate. Really happy to see your passion and craft being celebrated at this level. Wishing you many more heights ahead."

Thank you soo much sir means a lot https://t.co/0HphgDt2Gz atlee (@Atlee_dir) June 14, 2025

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Atlee is currently gearing up for his upcoming film starring Allu Arjun and Deepika Padukone. The team recently shared a video, officially announcing the Jawaan Actress' on boarding in the film.