Introduction
An honorary doctorate is meant to be a mark of deep respect—conferred by a university to someone who has made meaningful contributions to society, knowledge, or culture. In most cases, the announcement of such an honour is received with joy and pride. However, from time to time, certain individuals politely refuse the award.
This may seem surprising. After all, who would reject such a prestigious recognition? Yet, behind every refusal lies a personal, ethical, or situational reason. In this blog, we explore why some public figures, professionals, and changemakers choose to decline honorary doctorates, particularly in the Indian and global context.
Not Everyone Seeks Titles
One of the primary reasons people decline honorary doctorates is philosophical—they simply do not feel the need for titles or formal accolades. For them, the satisfaction lies in the work itself, not in the external recognition of it.
This is especially true for spiritual leaders, social workers, or minimalistic thinkers who believe that awards, even well-intentioned ones, can create hierarchy, pride, or public distraction. In some Indian traditions, humility and detachment from fame are considered signs of wisdom.
For example, a Gandhian activist working in a remote village may see the work as seva, or service—not something to be decorated with academic honours. Accepting an honorary doctorate might feel contradictory to their worldview.
Concerns Over Institutional Values
Sometimes, the refusal is not about the idea of the award, but the awarding body. A few recipients have declined honorary degrees because they do not agree with the values, politics, or actions of the university or organisation offering it.
This could happen if:
- The individual believes the institution is not inclusive or ethical.
- The university is involved in a controversy or political conflict.
- The person wants to avoid being associated with a particular ideological stand.
Such decisions are often principled rather than personal. They are a form of silent protest, where the recipient says, “Thank you, but I cannot accept this from you at this time.”
Timing and Sensitivity
There are occasions when the timing of the offer may make acceptance inappropriate. For instance:
- During a national tragedy or humanitarian crisis, public celebration of personal achievement may appear insensitive.
- If the person is holding a government or judicial post, accepting a public honour might be seen as a conflict of interest.
- In election seasons, it might look politically motivated, even if it’s not.
To maintain neutrality or show respect for the context, some recipients choose to delay or decline the honour.
Desire to Avoid Publicity
Not all people are comfortable being in the limelight. Some shy away from stage appearances, media attention, or ceremonial functions. This is especially true for scientists, researchers, or professionals who lead quiet, private lives.
For such individuals, the thought of a public felicitation or convocation may feel overwhelming or unnecessary. They may worry that the event will take focus away from their work or bring unwanted social pressure.
In such cases, the refusal is personal, not ideological.
Doubts About the Process
In recent years, the growing number of private or lesser-known institutions offering honorary doctorates has raised some concern. While many such recognitions are genuine, others may appear transactional or lacking in transparency.
A few reasons a recipient may decline based on process-related doubts include:
- The selection was not based on merit but on influence or popularity.
- The awarding body has no academic credibility or formal recognition.
- There was pressure to pay a “nomination” or “conferment” fee that felt commercial.
- The university offered the title without any consultation or verification.
Some individuals feel that accepting such awards may hurt their long-standing reputation or mislead the public into thinking they bought a degree. Declining it becomes a way to preserve professional and ethical integrity.
Cases from India and Abroad
There have been real instances where noted personalities have declined honorary degrees, such as:
- Artists who believe that their work speaks for itself and does not require formal decoration.
- Activists who wish to avoid politicisation of their life’s mission.
- Bureaucrats who are still in service and want to avoid potential conflicts with government service conduct rules.
- Scholars who worry that an honorary degree could be misunderstood as an academic qualification and lead to unnecessary questions.
One example often cited is that of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who declined certain offers in his lifetime as he felt they were not aligned with his work and social vision. Similarly, some Padma award recipients have later declined honorary degrees, citing either personal reasons or procedural disagreements.
It’s Not a Sign of Disrespect
It is important to understand that declining an honorary doctorate is not always a rejection of the gesture itself. In many cases, the person acknowledges the honour with gratitude but chooses to step aside for personal or professional reasons.
In fact, some universities appreciate such humility and keep the door open for future recognitions. Mutual respect remains intact.
Moreover, the act of declining—when done gracefully—often earns admiration. It reinforces the idea that true service is not dependent on titles.
Conclusion
Honorary doctorates are powerful tools of appreciation, but not everyone accepts them. Whether due to simplicity, ethical concerns, institutional values, or personal comfort, some people choose to walk away from these symbolic honours.
Their decision, far from diminishing the value of the degree, reminds us that the spirit of service and achievement often lies beyond academic robes or ceremonial scrolls. In a world where recognition is constantly sought, it takes quiet courage to say, “Thank you—but I would rather continue my work, without the title.”
And that in itself is a kind of greatness.