Media Release
Udupi, Oct 11: MAHE’s Department of Student Affairs organized a Marathon for Mental Health on October 10 to mark World Mental Health Day. The event, held at 4:00 PM in Manipal, aimed to raise mental health awareness and reaffirm MAHE’s dedication to promoting well-being. Over 1,000 participants, including students, faculty, and staff, joined the initiative.
The marathon was flagged off by vice chancellor Lt Gen Dr M D Venkatesh, who stressed MAHE's proactive stance on mental health. "Mental health is integral to overall health. We aim to create an environment where discussions on mental health are normalized and support is accessible. Together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health,” he said.
The event was attended by dignitaries such as pro vice chancellor for health sciences Dr Sharath Rao, COO Dr Raviraja N S, and registrar Dr P Giridhar Kini. Title sponsor Bell O Seal, represented by its director of technical and operations Ashok Kumar, supported the cause. “Bell O Seal is honored to support this important cause,” he said. Bank representatives from Bank of Baroda, Karnataka Bank, Federal Bank, Axis Bank, and Canara Bank were also present, highlighting the collective action needed to address mental health issues.
The event saw participation from Manipal Police Inspector Devaraj and Dr P V Bhandary, medical director of A V Baliga Hospital Udupi. Director of Student Affairs Dr Geetha Maiya welcomed the attendees and emphasized MAHE’s commitment to student well-being, stating, "This marathon is a small but significant step towards fostering a culture that prioritizes mental health."
Cultural performances added vibrancy to the event, with folk music and dance by the Kalamayam team from Udupi, the Katpadi Chende team, and the Mande vesha team from Parkala. Students from MCHP, MAHE also performed.
The event was emceed by Dr Reena Sherin, associate professor at KMC Manipal, and Dr Everil Jacklin Fernandes, assistant professor at DoC, MAHE. The marathon successfully raised mental health awareness while highlighting MAHE’s ongoing efforts to support the well-being of its community.