Rons Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Network

Mumbai, Jan 11: The Kannada Bhavan Educational Society (KBES) celebrated the 14th anniversary of KBES High School's Vajramahotsava at the Patkar Auditorium of SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai, on Saturday, January 11.

During the event, retired principal Prof R Pralhadacharya Nagarahalli spoke about the institution’s longstanding commitment to pure education. He stated, "The educational institution has grown like a banyan tree, nurturing students since its inception. It has transformed ordinary individuals into exemplary citizens, making them respected members of society."

He praised the Kannada Bhavan for preserving ethical educational values amidst the growing commercialisation of schools and expressed his wish for the institution to continue flourishing for another century.

Prof Nagarahalli also underscored the importance of maintaining high standards in education and reiterated the institution’s role as a beacon of integrity in an era where many schools have become profit-driven businesses.

The celebration was officially inaugurated with a lamp-lighting ceremony conducted by Prof Nagarahalli, who also blessed the attendees.

The event was presided over by Dayananda B Amin, president of Kannada Bhavan Education Society. Key dignitaries included chief guest CA Srinivas P Sapalya, president of Safalya Seva Sangh, Mumbai, and Honoured Guests CA N B Shettimahesh, president of NBS & Co. Chartered Accountants, Hotel Group director Sharada S Karkera, and hospitality industry entrepreneur Srinivas S Shetty.

Several alumni and faculty members were honoured for their exceptional service. Alumni achievers like CA Usha Gowda, CA Sanjay Raju Kundar, advocate Jayaram Shetty, and others were recognised for their contributions.

Faculty members, including Junior College lecturers Gulabrao M Patil and Rajendra R Gupta, were also felicitated for their long-standing dedication to the institution.

The event also paid tribute to the founders of the Kannada Bhavan, both Kannada and non-Kannada members, whose vision and hard work laid the foundation for this educational hub. President Dayanand Amin stated, "The founders' efforts have resulted in the creation of outstanding citizens, and this is the institution’s legacy that we continue to uphold."

Other dignitaries who attended the celebration included KBES vice-president Girish B Salian, general secretary Shekhar A Avin, honorary treasurer Purushottam M Poojari, joint secretary Dr Satish N Bangera, and others. The event was also attended by current and former faculty members, students, alumni, and parents.

The celebration included a cultural programme performed by the students of KBES and alumni, bringing a joyful atmosphere to the occasion. Teacher Vitthal Manore coordinated the cultural activities. Amrutha A Shetty welcomed the guests, while Shekhar A Avin provided an overview of the institution's achievements.

Alumni Gopal Trasi introduced the guests and honourees, and Dr Satish N Bangera proposed the vote of thanks.

The event was a memorable celebration of KBES High School’s remarkable contribution to education and its impact on the lives of students over the past 14 years.