The Guiding Trinity of SORC
A Beacon of Wisdom and Science
Dr. Virendra Kumar Vijjan
Retired Principal Scientist, Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly
Alumnus of Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
Dr. Virendra Kumar Vijjan is a distinguished scientist, author, poet, and linguist whose life and work embody a rare confluence of scientific inquiry and literary sensibility. Throughout his illustrious career, he represented India in various countries as a scientist, contributing significantly to his field while upholding the highest traditions of scholarship.
As the son of the renowned freedom fighter and philosopher-poet Ramlal ‘Shad Sarhadi’ (1914–1998), Dr. Vijjan has rendered an invaluable service to Indian letters by preserving, editing, and publishing the philosophical and poetic works of his father, thereby ensuring that this rich intellectual legacy continues to inspire future generations.
For the founder of SehAranya Oriental Research Centre, Dr. Vijjan has been a source of inspiration from the very beginning—an affectionate maternal uncle, mentor, and guide whose scholarship, vision, and encouragement have profoundly shaped the Centre’s intellectual journey.
Through his accomplishments in science, literature, and cultural preservation, Dr. Vijjan continues to illuminate the path for scholars and seekers alike.
A Beacon of Scholarship and Research
Prof. (Dr.) Mamta Singhal
Dean, Faculty of Arts & Humanities, Maa Shakumbhari University
Professor & Head, Department of English, J.V. Jain College, Saharanpur
Prof. (Dr.) Mamta Singhal is a distinguished academician, teacher, researcher, and mentor with nearly four decades of experience in higher education. Her areas of academic specialization include Indian Writing in English, Anglo-Indian Literature, Translation Studies, Shakespeare, and the Literature of the Romantic Age.
A prolific researcher and research supervisor, she has contributed extensively to English literary studies through books, research papers, seminars, conferences, and the guidance of doctoral scholars. Her academic career reflects a sustained commitment to scholarship, research, and the advancement of higher education.
As the Ph.D. supervisor of Dr. Akash Chanda, Founder of SehAranya Oriental Research Centre, Prof. Singhal played a formative role in shaping his academic and research journey. Her guidance during his doctoral research on the mystical and Vedantic poetry of Swami Ramtirtha helped nurture an enduring engagement with Indian intellectual and literary traditions that continues to inform the research orientation of SORC.
Her place in the Guiding Trinity of SORC represents the Centre’s commitment to rigorous scholarship, research mentorship, and the academic exploration of India’s intellectual heritage.
The Creative Spirit Behind Our Vision
CA Manish Chanda
8 July 1969 – 12 Dec 2025
Chartered Accountant • Entrepreneur • Creative Visionary
Some people build institutions with bricks; others build them with ideas. CA Manish Chanda did both.
As the elder brother of Dr. Akash Chanda, Founder-President of SORC, he was a constant source of encouragement, strength and creative support. He stood beside him through his academic and institutional endeavours, helping transform ideas into reality.With his practical insight and creative vision, he played a pivotal role in planning, designing and developing the physical infrastructure of the institution, giving tangible form to the emerging vision of SORC.
He remained closely associated with its journey until his untimely departure, shortly after the correspondence for obtaining the message of the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh had been finalized.
Though no longer with us, his vision, encouragement and contribution remain an enduring part of the institution he helped build.