Mohan Kuthar

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Nov 2: Despite being selected for the Suvarna Mahotsava award, Babu Pilar, a dedicated social worker from Pilar Darandabagilu who has conducted final rites for over 4,500 people, was denied the award at the last moment, sparking public outrage over what many consider an insult to his service.

Recalling the incident, Babu Pilar explained, “On the evening of October 31, Neelamma, the secretary of the Kannada and culture department, informed me that I had been selected for the Suvarna Mahotsava award. I was surprised and asked her to double-check, but she confirmed it. I travelled to Bengaluru that night, stayed at the Kumara Kripa guest house, and awaited the ceremony. However, by afternoon, a department official called to say my name had been mixed up with someone named Babu Kilar and apologized, promising my name would be considered next year.”

Although the Dakshina Kannada district administration’s list included Babu Pilar’s name, the confusion led to him receiving neither the state nor district award. The public has since expressed anger toward the Kannada and culture department, condemning the mishandling that led to a senior social worker’s embarrassment.