University of Hyderabad Appoints J Anuradha as First Woman VC

The University of Hyderabad has appointed Professor J Anuradha as its in-charge Vice-Chancellor. With this appointment, she has become the first woman to hold the post at the university. The appointment came into effect on 13 March 2026, following the retirement of the previous Vice-Chancellor.

J Anuradha Becomes First Woman VC at University

Professor J Anuradha assumed charge after the former Vice-Chancellor stepped down on attaining the age of 70.

• Appointment effective from: 13 March 2026
• Position: In-charge Vice-Chancellor
• Significance: First woman to hold the role

As the senior-most professor at the university, she took over the responsibility in line with institutional norms.

Academic Background and Experience

Professor Anuradha is a senior academic with more than three decades of experience at the university.

• Experience: 30+ years in academia
• Previous roles:
  • Head, Department of Dance
  • Dean, Sarojini Naidu School of Arts and Communication

She is also a noted Kuchipudi dancer and has contributed significantly to performing arts education.

Education and Contributions

An alumna of the same institution, she has a strong academic background.

• Master’s in Performing Arts: 1990
• PhD in Dance: 1996
• Joined faculty: 1993

She has mentored several research scholars and published works related to South Indian art and dance.

Role as In-Charge Vice-Chancellor

Professor Anuradha will handle administrative and academic responsibilities until a full-time Vice-Chancellor is appointed. Her focus will remain on:

• Smooth academic functioning
• Administrative continuity
• Maintaining institutional standards

The appointment is seen as a significant step toward improving women’s representation in leadership roles in higher education.

About University of Hyderabad

The University of Hyderabad is a central research university established in 1974. It is known for its strong academic programmes across sciences, humanities, and arts