The 72nd Republic Day was celebrated on Tuesday January 26 at Shivarama Karanth Bhavan, University Evening College, here.

Linekaje Ramachandra Bhat and his wife Laxmi Ramachandra Bhat (parents of Captain Rajaneesh Siddhi – Manipur Assam Rifles) were the chief guests of the programme.

He felt, the role of a parent is very important in sowing the seeds of dreams in the mind of a child. A parent will be a hindrance if he or she controls the hobbies, interests and enthusiasm of a child. "We need to encourage our children to read books of great personalities and their achievements, instead of allowing them to read the stories of bloodshed."

Dr Subhashini Srivatsa, the principal, presided over the programme and expressed her gratitude towards the elders who started this day to remember the strength of secularism, unity and democracy to preserve the peace and happiness of the society.

Linekaje Ramachandra Bhat and his wife were honoured. On the occasion, elocution and patriotic singing competitions were held for UG and PG students.

Dr Madhava M K, co-ordinator of the PG programmes in Tulu, Dr Jagadisha B, co-ordinator of MCom, MBA (IB) and Dr Devadasa Pai, the co-ordinator of the PG programmes in Konkani were present on the dais.

Student Mani led the prayer, Tharun Ullal welcomed the gathering, Swathi gave the vote of thanks. Chethan Nayak introduced the chief guest and Harshitha Bhat compered the programme.

Teaching, non-teaching staff and students were present at the programme.