Media Release

Mangaluru, Dec 20: The coastal city of Mangaluru witnessed a landmark event in the medical community on December 18 as the first-ever Dr H Sudarshan Ballal Oration was held, marking a significant milestone in recognizing excellence in healthcare leadership and innovation.

The oration, conducted at the Dr TMA Pai Convention Centre to commemorate the distinguished career of Dr H Sudarshan Ballal, chairman of Manipal Health Enterprises Pvt Ltd (MHEPL), brought together luminaries from the medical field. The event celebrated Dr Ballal's multifaceted contributions as a clinician, leader, and mentor, who has consistently raised the bar in healthcare through his compassionate approach and visionary leadership.

Among the dignitaries present were Dr H S Ballal, pro-chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), who presided over the function. Guests of honor included Lt Gen Dr MD Venkatesh, vice chancellor of MAHE, Dr Sharath K Rao, pro vice chancellor - health sciences, MAHE, Dr M Vijayakumar, vice chancellor of Yenepoya Deemed to be University, Dr Dilip G Naik, pro vice chancellor of MAHE Mangaluru campus, and Dr Padmaraj Hegde, dean of KMC Manipal. Dr Vivekanand Jha, executive director of the George Institute for Global Health India, delivered the keynote oration, emphasizing the crucial interplay between clinical care and research.

The evening commenced with the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge. This was followed by Dr Jha’s oration, which provided attendees with valuable insights on integrating clinical practice and research for improved patient outcomes.

In a heartfelt display of admiration and respect, the leadership team of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal and Mangaluru campuses, and associate deans of the MAHE group actively participated in the event, reflecting on Dr Ballal’s exceptional contributions to healthcare.