Manipal: Former Lokayukta and Udupi native, Justice P. Vishwanath Shetty, emphasized the duty of every individual to contribute to nation-building.
He was speaking at the New Year Awards ceremony held on Saturday at KMC Greens, organized by the Academy of General Education (AGE), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), Manipal Media Network Ltd. (MMNL), and the Dr. TMA Pai Foundation.
“Just as Dr. TMA Pai contributed immensely to controlling poverty, unemployment, and ill-health in the coastal region, it is our responsibility to serve to the best of our ability,” he said.
He added, “Addressing societal imbalances is not possible for governments alone. Social cooperation is essential. Dr. TMA Pai, who initiated such daring efforts in the 1950s when development was scarce, remains a role model for us all. His contributions deserve the Bharat Ratna.”
Education and Skill Development: The Need of the Hour
“Education alone may secure employment but not career progress. Success lies in gaining knowledge, developing skills, and maintaining relevance in the environment,” said senior banker Tekkar Yashwanth Prabhu, a native of Uppinangady. He stressed encouraging team members, being inspirational, and pursuing innovative research in various fields. “Competitiveness, commitment, and integrity elevate an individual. Good health, mental happiness, and humor play vital roles in relieving stress,” he added, urging compassion and inspiration to drive excellence in institutions.
The Truth of Art, Skill, and Aesthetic Vision: Dr. Vasundhara
Accepting challenges and embracing successes and failures equally with balance has been my path to growth, said renowned dancer and Moodbidri native, Dr. Vasundhara Doraswamy. “Artistic interest, skill, and aesthetic vision have been my sources of encouragement during all highs and lows. This is the truth of art I have realized,” she stated.
Honoring Achievers
Justice Vishwanath Shetty was honoured by MAHE Pro-Chancellor and AGE President Dr. H.S. Ballal, and Vice-Chancellor Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M.D. Venkatesh. Dr. Vasundhara Doraswamy was felicitated by MAHE trustee Vasanthi R. Pai and MMNL Executive Chairman T. Satish U. Pai. Tekkar Yashwanth Prabhu was recognized by Dr. TMA Pai Foundation President T. Ashok Pai and T. Satish U. Pai. Dr. P. Mohan Rao was felicitated by Dr. H.S. Ballal and Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M.D. Venkatesh.
Dr. H.S. Ballal delivered the welcome address, while Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M.D. Venkatesh proposed the vote of thanks. MAHE Pro-Chancellor Dr. Sharath Kumar Rao expressed gratitude, and Assistant Professor Shruthi V. Shetty of Manipal Institute of Communication anchored the event. The program also featured a Bharatanatyam performance by Dr. Vasundhara Doraswamy.
Health Through Balanced Living: Dr. Mohan Rao
Renowned physician and hospital administrator from Udupi, Dr. P. Mohan Rao, highlighted the importance of timely balanced meals, regular exercise, proper sleep, emotional balance, and a sense of duty in safeguarding health. Quoting the Bhagavad Gita’s verse, “Yuktaahara vihaarasya…,” he said, “Lord Krishna has explained the significance of moderation in all aspects of life.”
Focusing on mental well-being and happiness is crucial for maintaining good health, he noted, quoting Sushruta, the father of Indian medicine, who emphasized the role of a calm mind and senses in well-being.
He added, “While poverty leads to death by hunger, wealth often leads to death by overindulgence, as observed by Greek physician Lucretius long ago. Today’s lifestyle diseases such as obesity, hypertension, stress, and diabetes stem largely from unhealthy habits. Avoid alcohol and smoking altogether to prevent such issues,” he advised.