Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Aug 9: A distinguished figure in the banking world, P Jayaram Bhat, the former chairman of Karnataka Bank breathed his last on Wednesday, August 9. Bhat earned a reputation as a banking luminary over the course of three decades.
A seasoned banker and a devoted educator, P Jayaram Bhat transitioned from teaching to banking, ultimately ascending to the leadership of Karnataka Bank Limited – a renowned private sector institution within the nation's financial landscape.
Polali Jayaram Bhat, affectionately known as P Jayaram Bhat, assumed the role of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer on July 14, 2009, succeeding Ananthakrishna, who went on to become the part-time non-executive Chairman, marking an unprecedented achievement of leading the Bank for three consecutive terms.
The legacy of accomplished post-graduates occupying key positions at the bank continued under Bhat's leadership. While his predecessor, Ananthakrishna, held an MSc in Mathematics, Jayaram Bhat, the new MD, held an MSc degree in Chemistry, showcasing a diverse range of expertise.
Born in Polali, Bhat achieved a remarkable milestone by securing the top rank in his MSc program at Mysore University in 1972. His journey in banking commenced in 1973 as a probationary officer at Karnataka Bank Limited, where he rapidly advanced through the ranks. Bhat's diligence and dedication saw him serve as a Branch Manager for 14 years before assuming the role of chief accountant at the bank's headquarters in 1993. His ascent continued as he was promoted to Assistant General Manager, Deputy General Manager, and finally, Chief General Manager in 2005.
Beyond his commitment to banking, P Jayaram Bhat held a deep passion for shuttle badminton, cricket, and Carnatic classical music. He shared his life with his wife, Shubha Bhat, and their two children, a son and a daughter.
The legacy of P Jayaram Bhat's contributions to the banking sector and his diverse interests outside of it will be remembered fondly by the community he served.