Pics: Thejaswi Poojary
Media Release
Udupi, May 1: Manipal Group of Institutions celebrated the 127th birth anniversary of its founder Dr T M A Pai in a solemn and respectful ceremony held at Manipal on Wednesday, April 30.
Paying rich tributes to the remarkable legacy of Dr Pai as the chief guest, Justice S Abdul Nazeer, governor of Andhra Pradesh, described him as a ‘legendary visionary’ whose pioneering efforts in education and healthcare have transformed lives and continue to inspire generations.
He remembered Dr Pai as a multi-faceted personality — an educationist, banker, philanthropist, and a true nation builder. “Dr Pai believed that poverty could be eradicated by eliminating illiteracy and ill health. He is a true karma yogi who viewed educated children not just as assets to their families, but as the pillars of a progressive nation,” he added.
On a personal note, the governor also shared his connection to Dr Pai’s legacy. “I am a proud alumnus of Mahaveera College at Moodbidri, an institution founded by Dr T M A Pai. His vision shaped my educational journey and career,” he said.
The celebration was also attended by dignitaries from the Manipal Group, including Vasanti R Pai, trustee, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Trust; Dr Ranjan R Pai, president, MAHE Trust; registrar, Academy of General Education and chairman, Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), Bengaluru; T Ashok Pai, president, Dr T M A Pai Foundation, Manipal; T Satish U Pai, executive chairman, Manipal Media Network Ltd and vice president, AGE; Dr H S Ballal, pro chancellor, MAHE and president, AGE, Manipal; and Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh VSM (retd), vice chancellor, MAHE, Manipal. Several senior officials from the Manipal Group also graced the occasion, making it a significant celebration of Dr Pai’s lasting legacy.
Each year, Manipal Group of Institutions celebrates Founder's Day on April 30 to honour and remember the legacy of Dr T M A Pai, the visionary who transformed the once barren hilltop of Manipal into a globally renowned educational hub. This year's celebration featured several programmes, beginning with a heartfelt floral tribute to Dr Pai by all the distinguished guests and dignitaries.
Welcoming the gathering, Dr H S Ballal, president, AGE, Manipal and pro chancellor, MAHE, said, “We are reminded of the extraordinary vision of our founder Dr T M A Pai that has shaped not just an institution, but an entire educational ecosystem. His foresight in establishing self-financing educational institutions in the 1950s was revolutionary and continues to inspire our approach to education today. As we honour his memory, we rededicate ourselves to his principles of accessible quality education, innovation, and service to society — hallmarks of the Manipal experience.”
Addressing the audience, Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh VSM (retd), vice chancellor, MAHE, said, “As we celebrate the 127th birth anniversary of our founder, we reflect on a legacy that continues to guide our institution’s mission and vision. Dr Pai’s journey — from establishing a single medical college to creating a comprehensive educational ecosystem — exemplifies visionary leadership. His belief that education should be accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status, remains central to our foundation. Over the past year, we have reinforced this commitment through expanded scholarship programmes, research focused on societal challenges, and international collaborations that offer our students global perspectives.”
The event also featured several award presentations, including the 'Kundapur Mohan and Latha Bhandarkars' Merit-cum-Means Scholarships', the 'Sharada M Pai - Dr Padma Rao Memorial Award' for the best nursing and anganwadi service, the 'Sharada M Pai - Dr Padma Rao A-MMS Diamond Jubilee Award' for the best female warden/caretaker (non-teaching staff), and the 'Geetha K Nayak Memorial Award' for senior nurses of Kasturba Hospital. The programme also honoured rank holders from AGE colleges, recipients of Kadambi Scholarships, and Manipal Scholars.
Dr Narayana Sabhahit, pro vice chancellor – technology and science, MAHE, delivered the vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to all who contributed to making the celebration a success.