An event in Ramanagara honoured Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary with tributes and recognitions.
Ramanagara
The 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was celebrated at Patel Public English School on Magadi Road, Kempegowda Circle. The event was organised jointly by the District Negilayogi Social Service Trust and the school and was inaugurated by Trust founder-secretary Patel Raju. In his address, Raju praised Patel’s political foresight and organisational skill, stating that these qualities were pivotal in integrating princely states and disparate regions into a united India after independence in 1947. He specifically mentioned Hyderabad, Junagadh, Kashmir, Bombay, Calcutta, Madras and Gujarat as areas whose merger into the Indian Union reflected Patel’s leadership, earning him the lasting title “Iron Man of India.”
As part of the programme, retired headmaster Shashikumar M.K. of Mattikere, who devoted thirty-seven years to teaching and emphasised discipline, unity and moral values among students, was felicitated with the Kengal Abhinandana Award. The award was presented jointly by the Trust and the school in recognition of his long service. Shashikumar, while accepting the honour, spoke about the duty of educators to prepare children as responsible citizens and to preserve the spirit of national unity.
Trust secretary Timmegowda T.R. urged the students to follow Patel’s example and to carry forward his legacy by becoming proud and responsible members of society. The ceremony included short plays by students depicting episodes from Patel’s life. Attendees included Sridhar Kyashapur Shivanna, Rotary Kanakapura taluk president Gabbadi Kadegouda, veterinary surgeon Mallesh, Rajendra B.T., Kalegowda, B.T. Dinesh of Kannada Sahitya Parishat, local social workers, school staff and pupils. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from headmaster G.R. Vinod.
