Introduction
The moment a university confers an honorary doctorate is not just ceremonial—it’s symbolic. It acknowledges the life’s work of an individual and links it to the values of education, service, and progress. Often, during convocations or special academic events, the recipient of the honorary degree is invited to say a few words. But is this expected? Is a speech mandatory? And more importantly, should it be given at all?
This blog explores the cultural, ethical, and academic significance of delivering a speech while accepting an honorary doctorate in India. It also considers situations where a speech may not be needed, and how a simple expression of gratitude can still hold deep meaning.
The Tradition of the Acceptance Speech
In many Indian universities, the practice of inviting honorary doctorate recipients to give a short speech is common. This happens especially when the award is conferred during a convocation ceremony, where students, faculty, and parents are present.
This tradition serves several purposes:
- It allows the audience to hear directly from the person being honoured.
- It bridges the gap between theory and lived experience, especially for graduating students.
- It becomes a moment of inspiration, linking knowledge to action.
In some cases, this address is referred to as the “honorary address” or “guest of honour remarks,” though not all honorary recipients are given a long slot to speak.
Is It Mandatory to Speak?
The simple answer is: no, it is not mandatory. An honorary doctorate is a gesture of recognition, not a formal lecture appointment. Many recipients are simply felicitated with a shawl, citation, and certificate, and choose to express their thanks in a brief, informal way.
However, if the university offers the opportunity to speak, it is considered respectful to accept—unless health, age, or protocol prevents it.
Situations where a speech may not be given include:
- When the ceremony includes multiple recipients and time is limited
- If the recipient is elderly or unwell
- When the award is presented privately and not during a public event
- When the recipient is from a foreign country and language barriers exist
In such cases, a written note of gratitude or a pre-recorded message may be shared instead.
Why a Speech Can Be Meaningful
For many universities, the words spoken by honorary degree recipients stay with students long after the event. These are not academic discourses—they are real-world reflections. A well-delivered acceptance speech can:
- Inspire young minds entering the next stage of life
- Share lessons from a life of service, innovation, or creativity
- Bring attention to social issues the recipient is passionate about
- Express gratitude towards communities or mentors that shaped the recipient
Unlike scripted lectures, these speeches are valued for their authenticity and emotion.
Many universities archive or publish these speeches in magazines, newsletters, or commemorative books, preserving the moment for future generations.
What Makes a Good Honorary Acceptance Speech?
If you are ever invited to accept an honorary doctorate and speak at the event, consider these simple guidelines:
- Keep It Brief: Usually, five to ten minutes is enough. Stay within the time suggested by the organisers.
- Be Personal: Share your journey, struggles, turning points, or moments that shaped your values.
- Acknowledge the Institution: Express gratitude to the university, its faculty, and its students.
- Speak to the Students: A few words of advice or encouragement go a long way. Speak in simple language, especially if the audience includes undergraduates.
- Avoid Promotion: The speech should not be used to promote personal businesses, products, or politics.
- Stay Humble: A gentle tone, grounded in service and humility, resonates more than grand claims.
You don’t need to be a polished speaker. Even simple words delivered with sincerity will be appreciated.
Notable Examples from Indian Context
Several honorary doctorate recipients in India have delivered memorable acceptance speeches:
- A social worker in Karnataka used the occasion to share a story about women’s empowerment in villages and received a standing ovation from young graduates.
- A classical musician in Tamil Nadu began her acceptance with a short song, making it both emotional and culturally rooted.
- A retired civil servant in Delhi thanked his primary school teacher by name during his speech, bringing tears to the audience.
These moments show that what is spoken need not be complex—it only needs to be real.
When Silence Is Enough
There are also dignified occasions where no speech is given, yet the moment remains powerful.
In some cases:
- The award is accepted with folded hands and a smile.
- A gesture such as touching the feet of a mentor, or offering the certificate to one’s village temple or school, says more than words.
- The recipient may donate the cash component (if any) to a social cause, letting action speak.
Silence too can be a kind of speech—especially when surrounded by sincerity.
Conclusion
An honorary doctorate is not a prize—it is a public thank-you from the academic world. Whether one chooses to respond with words or gestures, the moment holds meaning.
In India’s rich tradition of humility and respect, both speech and silence have their place. A short message from the heart can inspire thousands. A silent smile of gratitude can honour decades of service.
So, should honorary degrees be accepted with a speech? Only if it comes naturally. When it does, it becomes more than a formality—it becomes part of the legacy being recognised.