Manipal: Rural readers’ response key to Udayavani’s success – MMNL MD & CEO Vinod Kumar

Team Udayavani, Nov 17, 2024, 8:52 AM IST

Manipal: Udayavani has successfully captivated readers from all sections, including rural areas, said Vinod Kumar, Managing Director and CEO of Manipal Media Network Ltd (MMNL). He was speaking during the prize distribution ceremony for the ‘Navaroopa’ lucky bumper competition held at the headquarters in Manipal on Saturday, November 16.

Presiding over the event, he stated that the competition, conceptualized during Navaratri, added vibrance to the festive spirit, particularly among women, while celebrating cultural values. “We take pride in creating such initiatives. We hope for greater participation next year to make the competition even more successful,” he added.

Guests Felicitate Winners

Vanitha G. Pai, a prominent member of the Manipal Group of Institutions, graced the occasion as the chief guest and presented prizes to the winners, wishing them well.

Speaking on the occasion, Udayavani Editor Aravinda Navada highlighted that the Navaroopa initiative has grown significantly over the years. “In the initial years, responses were limited to urban areas, but now, rural readers are equally enthusiastic. This competition has not only addressed the knowledge hunger of rural audiences but also encouraged their active participation. Plans are underway to make this event more meaningful in the coming years,” he said.

Ramachandra Mijar, Vice President of Magazines and Special Initiatives, welcomed the attendees, hosted the program, and expressed gratitude to all participants for their enthusiastic involvement. “Competitions like Navaroopa serve as platforms for women’s empowerment, and this tradition should continue,” he remarked.

Usharani Kamath, Senior Manager of HR at Manipal Media Network Ltd., read out the list of winners, while local editor Krishna Bhat Aladangadi delivered the vote of thanks.

Bumper Prize Winners

• Divya and team, Kottara, Mangaluru
• Vandana and team, Bantakal, Udupi
• Members of Veera Maruti Bhajan Mandir, Madikal Uppunda

Creating Competitive Spirit

“The prize has brought immense joy to us and our community. Many of our friends have decided to participate next year, indicating the widespread influence of Navaroopa. Competitions like these organized by Udayavani have opened doors for women like us to explore a competitive society,” said Mukta from Madikal Uppunda.

Prizes Add to the Joy

“People living in apartments rarely participate in such events. However, our group of women regularly clicked and sent photographs to Udayavani. Winning the bumper prize was beyond our expectations and is truly a delightful surprise,” said Divya from Mangaluru.

Festive Enthusiasm Multiplied

“Our group was ready with sarees even before Navaratri started. Sending photographs daily became a part of our celebration, and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Reading Udayavani has been a long-standing habit for us, and winning a competition organized by a top-tier newspaper is a dream come true,” shared Ashwini from Bantakal.