Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, May 8: Renowned cultural leader and retired Sanskrit lecturer Prof Heranje Krishna Bhat passed away on Thursday, May 8 evening at a private hospital in Udupi due to age-related ailments. He was 84.

He is survived by his wife, a son, and a large circle of relatives and well-wishers.

Prof Bhat served as a Sanskrit lecturer and head of Department at MGM College, Udupi, for many years. Post-retirement, he took charge as director of the Rashtrakavi Govinda Pai Research Centre, where he played a vital role in organising numerous literary and cultural activities.

A disciple of the late Ku Shi Haridas Bhat, Prof Krishna Bhat carved a niche as a respected cultural organiser. Over five decades, he led the successful execution of several major events such as Udupi’s Paryayotsavas, Kanaka Dasa and Vadiraja music festivals, literary conventions, and the World Tulu Conference.

Through the Janapada Research Centre, he also documented several vanishing folk arts under his guidance.

Recognised for his multi-faceted contributions, Prof Bhat received numerous honours, including accolades from Udupi’s Ashta Maths, a felicitation at the 2007 All India Kannada Literary Conference, Alva’s Nudisiri Award, and Garadi Utsava awards.

Even in his later years, he remained devoted to Vedic studies and daily recitations of sacred hymns like the Pavamana Suktas.

Prominent religious and public figures, including the heads of Puttige, Krishnapura, Pejavara, Kaniyoor, Adamaru, Palimaru, Sode, Shiruru, and Bhandarkeri Maths, expressed deep condolences.

Condolences were also offered by Dr D. Veerendra Heggade, MLA Yashpal Suvarna, MP Kota Srinivas Poojary, former MLA K Raghupati Bhat, and Dr Mohan Alva.

The funeral will be held on Friday, May 9 at 10:30 am at the Beedinagudde Crematorium. The body will be kept for final viewing at his residence in Vibudhapriya Nagar from 9 am to 10 am.