Pics: Nithin Pereira

Daijiworld Media Network- Udupi (NP)

Udupi, Aug 3: Ln Sapna Suresh was formally installed as the district governor of Lions District 317C. The grand installation ceremony was held at Ocean Pearl Auditorium, Times Square, Udupi on August 2. The event was titled Spoorthi Cabinet Installation 2025–26 and the host club was the Lions Club Parkala.

Vijay Raghavendra, renowned film actor and Bigg Boss winner in his inaugural address said, “My first movie was shot in Udupi, and though I suffered a leg fracture during the shoot, I recovered quickly perhaps because of the divine presence of Lord Krishna. That film remains close to people’s hearts. I also paid tribute to late superstar Puneeth Rajkumar, I remember and mention his name at public events because he is an inspiration to the people of Karnataka and Kannada cinema. When I visit Mangaluru, I don’t come as a star but as a son because of my wife’s roots here. She is my strength. Lions is an organization that functions with discipline, dedication, and a pure sense of service, promoting unity and humanity in its actions. I thank all for inviting me in this installation programme."

In her first official address as District Governor, Sapna Suresh said, "As the district governor, I am deeply grateful to all the members of Lions District 317C, our past governors, and district leaders for their unwavering support. I am proud to share that we have successfully achieved our target of forming 12 new clubs, six of which were established before my visit to the international conference, and all were completed by July 30. This collective effort gave me the privilege of representing our district at the international level. This year, my focus will be on empowering backward communities, promoting education and youth programmes, and raising awareness about diabetes and healthcare. One of our key initiatives, the 'Neralu' project, will distribute 500 umbrellas worth Rs 5 lac to roadside vendors across the district, led by our Vision Programme. Though our international donation target was 53,000 dollars, we managed to contribute an impressive 50,000 dollars, and I am committed to strengthening the bond of District 317C as we move forward together."

Ln R Sampath, past international director and installation officer said, "Our new district governor has achieved something truly remarkable by starting 12 new clubs which is no easy task and a testament to her dedication and leadership. This installation program is not just a ceremonial event; it marks the revival of leadership with fresh ideas and renewed energy. I wholeheartedly congratulate all the newly appointed officers and express my deep appreciation to the previous officers for their outstanding contributions. Lions District 317C is a notable and respected district, and together, let’s work to transform more lives through our service. With 400 new members already added under her leadership, we must continue growing, because more members means more hands to serve society better."

Ln V V Krishna Reddy, past international director and chief guest of the event expressed his happiness, he said, "I am truly happy to be part of this wonderful installation program here, and tomorrow we will be having our own installation event in Bengaluru. Ln Sapna has truly proven her leadership and capabilities by successfully forming 12 new clubs and adding 400 members, an outstanding achievement. I congratulate all the cabinet members for taking on this responsibility. I have been appointed to lead one of the CSR initiatives, and my focus will be on connecting with corporates to address societal and community needs. With many banks and companies earning good profits, we must actively engage them to utilize their CSR funds to support projects that uplift people and create lasting impact."

Ln Sapna Suresh presented the newly formed cabinet of the Lions District Club, while Leo Chiraj Poojary delivered a presentation on behalf of the Leo Club, highlighting youth participation and leadership. Felicitations were held for the dedicated workers of Lions District Club 317C. District directory was inaugurated in the event by First vice district governor Ln Rajeev Kotian. Ln Sahana Kini was the chief editor of the directory.

The event began with the honouring of guests by district governor Ln Sapna Suresh, followed by the recognition of new MJFs, presented by Ln Varun K Shetty. Ln Shalini D Bangera then recognized the officers of the newly formed clubs. Ln Ananth Naik presented the Registration Committee Report. A certificate of appreciation was awarded to the host club and the installation committee by DG Sapna Suresh, acknowledging their efforts and contributions. Immediate past district governor Ln Mohammed Haneef and second vice district governor Ln Hariprasad Rai each gave their felicitations, appreciating the achievements and progress of the district. Ln Suresh Prabhu, welcomed and introduced actor Vijay Raghavendra. Supriya and Suhana, daughter of DG Sapna Suresh, introduced her mother with pride and emotion, ahead of her formal installation. Ln N M Hegde introduced the installation officer Ln R Sampath.

The event witnessed the presence of district GET coordinator Ln Mahesh Kumar B S; district cabinet treasurer Ln Y Shashidhar Shetty; district cabinet secretary Ln Shalini D Bangera; second VDG Ln Hariprasad Rai; first VDG Ln Rajeev Kotian; IPDG Ln Mohammed Haneef; MCC Ln N Mohan Kumar; PID Ln V V Krishna Reddy; actor Vijaya Raghavendra; PID Ln R Sampath; district governor Ln Sapna Suresh; PDG Ln Suresh Prabhu and other region chairperson, Installation committee and members of the host lions club Parkala.

The programme began with a soulful prayer by Akash Hebbar; Ln Padmanabha Bhandary extended a warm welcome to the gathering. Ln Siddaraju delivered the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with a formal adjournment of the meeting by DG Sapna Suresh. The event was compered by Ln Raviraja Nayak and Ln Raghunatha Nayak.