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Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Mar 11: As part of annual programme of the academic year 2025-26 Shri Madhwa Vadiraja Institute of Technology and Management (SMVITM), Bantakal, hosted the national-level techno-cultural fest ‘Varnotsava 2026’, at open Air Auditorium, SMVITM Bantakal, on March 11.
The event was inaugurated by P Srinivas Tantry, vice president of Shri Sode Vadiraja Math Education Trust (SSVMET), Udupi, by lighting the traditional lamp and unveiling the Konark wheel, specially developed for the occasion.
Deepak Nayak, lead engineer at ClearFeedai, Bengaluru, chief guest of the event, addressed the students and said that Varnotsava had played a significant role in shaping his own career. He noted that the four years of college life serve as a bridge between academic learning and the real world. Encouraging students to make the most of such opportunities, he said failures are an integral part of learning and urged participants to stay connected and continue exploring new ideas.
Guest of honour Snehal V Rao, quantity surveyor Simons and Associates Udupi, highlighted the importance of creativity in blending technology and culture. She noted that while technical fields involve coding and designing and cultural activities represent artistic expression, creativity acts as the bridge connecting both. She advised students to remain technically strong while also appreciating cultural values and to apply the knowledge gained from teachers when they step into the professional world.
Dr Radhakrishna S Aithal, CEO, Sode Group of Institutions, highlighted the institution’s focus on holistic development. He appreciated student creativity and recognised the work of Vignesh Kalathur, lab instructor, Mechanical department, for developing the Konark wheel, encouraging students to channel their energy into academic and professional excellence and said, He encouraged students to channel their energy in the right direction and showcase their hidden talents while striving for academic and professional excellence.
Rathnakumar, secretary, SSVMET Udupi, described Varnothsava as a colourful festival blending technical, cultural, and business activities. He emphasised responsible use of technology while preserving cultural values and noted the institution’s achievement of becoming autonomous and elevating the festival to a national level, while also thanking the sponsors for their support.
On the occasion, prizes of the Manthana technical and cultural competitions were distributed. First-year students Amit Rao, Deekshith and Rathesh were specially recognised for developing an innovative College Bell Automation System.
The programme began with the invocation by Chithkala, a final year student of CSE.
Dr Nagaraj Bhat, principal, SMVITM welcomed the gathering. Shruthi, second year student of MBA introduced the chief guest Deepak Nayak and Shravya Tantry, third year ECE student introduced guest of honour Snehal. Savitha Shenoy, cultural coordinator delivered the vote of thanks.
The event was compered by Chirashree and Abhishek Kini, third-year CSE students.
Students, staff members, participants and others were present on the occasion.