Udupi: MGM College Amrita Mahotsava Celebrations – Grand shobhayatra held with fanfare

Team Udayavani, Nov 30, 2024, 6:57 PM IST

Udupi: MGM College in Udupi celebrated its Amrita Mahotsava (75th Anniversary) with a grand procession on Saturday morning. The event was inaugurated by Sri Sugunendra Teertha Swamiji of Paryaya Sri Puthige Matha, who ceremoniously handed over a sacred lamp (jyoti) in front of Sri Krishna Matha on Car Street, symbolizing the blessings of Lord Krishna.

Swamiji recalled the college’s founding, stating, “When MGM College was established, prayers were offered to Lord Krishna. Our revered Gurus participated in that event and blessed the institution. This tradition of seeking divine blessings continued during the Golden and Diamond Jubilees. May the institution grow to greater heights with the blessings of Lord Krishna,” he said.

The Procession Begins
The procession commenced from Gandhi Main School, the site where MGM College was initially started in 1949. Dr. TMA Pai Foundation President T. Ashok Pai flagged off the procession.

The colorful parade, featuring students and several tableaux, began from Mandavi Times Square at Kalsanka and culminated at the MGM College campus. Around 2,000 students participated, adding vibrancy to the event.

The procession showcased traditional cultural displays such as hulivesha (tiger dance), Yakshagana, chande drums, Nasik bands, and performers dressed as fire-breathing demons. A tableau depicting the life of Dr. TMA Pai, the institution’s founder, stood out as a highlight.

Ceremonial Welcome at the Campus

The sacred lamp was welcomed on the college premises by MGM College Trust Chairman T. Satish U. Pai and other dignitaries. The second day of celebrations commenced with the lighting of the lamp in the auditorium. Cultural performances by students, including hulivesha and Nasik band acts, enthralled the audience.

The event also featured the release of a book during a linguistic symposium. Eminent guests highlighted the cultural and academic achievements of the college during the occasion.

Memories of MGM

During the MGM Nenapu (MGM Memories) session, retired principal and alumnus Prof. M. L. Samaga expressed pride in his association with the institution. He said, “MGM is not just an academic hub but also a cultural center that has nurtured and preserved many scholars. The foundation laid by former principal Ku. Shi. Haridas Bhat deserves credit for the institution’s growth.”

Chartered Accountant and alumnus G. Prabhakar Nayak shared nostalgic memories of his student days, remarking, “MGM taught me invaluable life lessons. The education here was rigorous, and I owe my success in CA intermediate exams to the notes provided by my teachers.”

A Showcase of Legacy

Principal Prof. Laxminarayana Karanth presided over the event, stating, “MGM College boasts over 50,000 alumni. The participation of nearly 2,000 students in today’s procession is a testament to the admiration and love they hold for their institution.”

The event was graced by prominent figures, including MGM Trust Secretary B.P. Varadaraya Pai, T. Mohandas Pai (Director of the Skill Development Centre), Dr. Devidas Naik (Principal of MGM Evening College), and others.

Cultural Highlights and Documentaries

MGM Pre-University College Principal Malathi Devi welcomed the gathering, while Commerce Department Head Prof. Vanitha Mayya delivered the vote of thanks. English Department Assistant Professor Spoorthi S. anchored the event.

A documentary showcasing the illustrious journey of MGM College was screened, highlighting its legacy. Various cultural programs performed by students followed in the afternoon.

Classical Music Finale

The celebrations concluded on a high note with a classical music concert, Oorja, presented by renowned sitar player Chintakkatti and his team from Mumbai. The instrumental ensemble featured Indian classical ragas, captivating the audience.