Media release
Udupi, Dec 3: Dr Anantha Padmanabha Bhat of Udupi has been unanimously elected as the honorary secretary of the Udupi Sri Adamaru Math Education Council, Bengaluru. He assumed office on November 22, under the guidance of the council's president, His Holiness Eshapriya Teertha Swamiji.
Born in 1959 in the Sural region of Udupi to revered priestly parents Janardhana Bhat and Jayalakshmi, Dr Bhat completed his primary education in his hometown. He pursued pre-university education at Viveka Junior College, Kota, and earned his bachelor's degree from Sri Darmastala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) College, Ujire, in 1977. He completed his postgraduate studies at the University of Mysore in 1982.
Dr Bhat began his teaching career in 1983 as a lecturer in physics at SDM College, Ujire. In 1985, he joined Poornaprajna College, Udupi, as an assistant professor of physics, under the blessings of the founding president of the Sri Adamaru Math Education Council, His Holiness Vibudhesha Teertha Swamiji.
He obtained his master of philosophy degree in 1997 from Mangalore University.
His Holiness Vibudhesha Teertha Swamiji, with a deep interest in science particularly physicsb formed a special bond with Dr Bhat. Swamiji often invited Dr Bhat to the math for discussions on various topics related to physics, recognizing his remarkable ability to explain complex concepts in a simple, yet profound manner.
In the edited book Sri Vibudhesha Teertharu (A collective study of achievements), Dr Bhat shares memorable experiences with Swamiji, recounting how the Swamiji encouraged him to pursue advanced research in physics and obtain a PhD. Motivated by Swamiji's insistence, Dr Bhat began his research journey under professor Mohan Rao at Mangalore University.
To support Dr Bhat’s research, Swamiji instructed the college administration to provide a conducive environment for research at Poornaprajna College, resulting in the establishment of the Crystal Growth and Laser Research Lab.
Inaugurated on National Science Day in 1999 by His Holiness Vishwapriya Teertha Swamiji, the lab became an inspiration for students pursuing scientific exploration. Dr Bhat initiated a Crystal Growth Certificate Course to encourage students’ research interests, making the facility a hub of learning and innovation.
Dr Bhat became head of the physics department at Poornaprajna College in 2001. In 2004, he completed his doctoral thesis titled Growth and Properties of Non-linear Crystals, earning his PhD. His research led him to esteemed institutions like the Nuclear Center in New Delhi, the department of photonics in Cochin, the University of Science and Technology, and the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad. He published approximately eight research papers in international journals and presented over 25 papers at national and international conferences, alongside completing two minor research projects funded by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
Dr Bhat has long been passionate about astronomy. At Poornaprajna College, he engaged students by organising sky-watching sessions through the Aryabhata club, later renamed the Poornaprajna Amateur Astronomers association in 2004 under the guidance of His Holiness Vibudhesha Teertha Swamiji. Through the association, Dr Bhat organized over 400 sky-watching sessions and awareness programmes about eclipses in rural areas of Karnataka. He also shared his knowledge through articles and media, educating the public about celestial phenomena in an accessible manner.
Dr Bhat acquired telescopes and other essential equipment through funding from the UGC, supported by contributions from His Holiness Vishwapriya Teertha Swamiji. He further expanded the scope of the association by organizing workshops, seminars, and national and international conferences related to astronomy, fostering a culture of scientific curiosity.
In 2019, Dr Bhat retired as principal of Poornaprajna College but continued his commitment to scientific awareness. During the annular solar eclipse of December 2019, he led initiatives to educate people on safe viewing methods, conducting programs in nearly 1,000 schools across Karnataka, demonstrating safe techniques like pinhole cameras.
In 2022, Dr Bhat was appointed the honorary administrative officer of the Udupi Shri Adamaru Math Education Council, Bengaluru, under the blessings of president His Holiness Eshapriya Teertha Swamiji.
Throughout his career, Dr Bhat has been dedicated to the welfare and growth of Poornaprajna College and its associated institutions. His integrity, dedication, and exemplary work ethic have earned him the admiration and trust of Swamiji, positioning him as a pivotal figure in the council's mission to advance educational excellence.
Through the Poornaprajna Amateur Astronomers association, Dr Bhat has inspired many students to pursue advanced studies in astronomy. His ability to make complex concepts accessible is fondly remembered by his students, with several going on to become scientists at prestigious institutions. His influence extended beyond science students, earning admiration from those in other disciplines as well.
Dr Bhat has received numerous accolades in recognition of his contributions to education and society. The Udupi Brahmin association honoured him with the Best Teacher Award, while the Udupi Rotary Club presented him with the Rotary Outstanding Achievement Award for his community-focused efforts. Additionally, the Alevoor Group in Udupi bestowed upon him the Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication to education and astronomy.
Dr A P Bhat’s appointment as the honorary secretary of the Udupi Sri Adamaru Math Education Council reflects his long-standing commitment to educational excellence. Under his leadership, and with the guidance of His Holiness Eshapriya Teertha Swamiji, the 51 educational institutions managed by the council are set to achieve new heights and earn national recognition.
The faculty and staff of Poornaprajna College, including principal Dr Ramu L, have extended their heartfelt congratulations to Dr A P Bhat on his new appointment and wished him the best for his continued leadership in advancing the council's mission of educational excellence.