New Delhi, June 15 -- Filmmaker Atlee has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology for his outstanding contributions to Indian cinema. The event, held at the university's convocation ceremony, saw Atlee return to the very campus where his dreams of storytelling first took shape.

In a moving speech, Atlee became emotional as he addressed the audience. Reflecting on his days as a student, he said, "It's surreal to be honoured by the same university where I once walked in with big dreams. It was here that I learned the power of belief."

The director also expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who supported him along the way. "My parents stood by me till I became a filmmaker. But the one who shape...