Media Release
Mangaluru, May 9: Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) observed the 134th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr B R Ambedkar with a solemn and inspiring ceremony at its MERC campus. The event paid tribute to Dr Ambedkar’s visionary role as the architect of the Indian Constitution and his tireless advocacy for social justice and equality.
Chief guest Dr Natesh B H, interventional cardiologist at Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, Bengaluru, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the timeless relevance of Dr Ambedkar’s principles of equality, fraternity, and justice.
The event was presided over by Mundkur Shyamprasad Kamath, managing director of MRPL, who reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility. He also highlighted Dr Ambedkars legacy and contributions in nation building.
Guests of honour included:
• Nandakumar V Pillai, director (Refinery)
• Devendra Kumar, director (Finance)
• BHV Prasad, ED (Projects)
• B Sudarshan, ED (Refinery)
Special guests:
• Dr Sabitha Koraga, assistant professor, Mangalore University the first woman from the Koraga community to receive a PhD.
• Dr Dinakara, faculty, Mangalore University
The programme began with an invocation and welcome by Sandesh J Cutinho, CGM (HR/administration), followed by the lighting of the lamp and floral tributes to Babasaheb. The dignitaries felicitated Dr Sabitha Koraga and Dr Dinakara for their contributions to education and community upliftment.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Manoj Kumar, CGM (Administration), and a cultural performance by MRPL employees titled ‘Jai Bhim’, dramatising episodes from Dr Ambedkar’s life and legacy, receiving wide appreciation from the audience. Naveen Shankar Naik compered the event.