Celebrating the Legacy of Visionary Education Pioneer Dr. T.M.A Pai on His 127th Birth Anniversary within Manipal Group of Institutions
Gathering at Manipal honors the Memory of Dr. T.M.A. Pai
The 127th birth anniversary of Dr. T.M.A. Pai, the founder of the illustrious Manipal Group of Institutions, was celebrated in a moving tribute held on April 30, 2025, in Manipal. The ceremony saw the presence of numerous dignitaries, including Hon'ble Justice S. Abdul Nazeer, the Governor of Andhra Pradesh, who paid rich tributes to the eminent visionary.
In his speech, the Governor remembered Dr. Pai as a multi-faceted personality, a pioneer in the fields of education and healthcare who transformed lives and continues to inspire generations. He emphasized the importance of Dr. Pai's Philanthropic endeavors, stating,
He further shared his personal connection to Dr. Pai's legacy, being an alumnus of Mahaveera College at Moodbidri, another institution founded by Dr. T.M.A. Pai.
The gathering was also attended by Mrs. Vasanti R. Pai, Trustee of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Trust, Dr. Ranjan R. Pai, President of MAHE Trust, other senior officials from the Manipal Group, and Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M.D. Venkatesh VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor of MAHE.
The tribute day was filled with events and accolades, including award presentations for students excelling in academics and service, such as the "Kundapur Mohan and Latha Bhandarkar Merit-cum-Means Scholarships", the "Smt. Sharada M Pai - Dr. Padma Rao Memorial Award" for the Best Nursing and Anganwadi Service, and the "Smt. Sharada M Pai - Dr. Padma Rao A- MMS Diamond Jubilee Award" for the Best Female Warden/Caretaker (Non-Teaching Staff). The event also honored rank holders from AGE Colleges, recipients of Kadambi Scholarships, and Manipal Scholars.
Dr. H.S. Ballal, President of AGE Manipal and Pro Chancellor of MAHE, welcomed the gathering and emphasized the importance of realizing Dr. Pai's extraordinary vision. He highlighted MAHE's commitment to upholding the principles of accessible quality education, innovation, and service to society as the traditional hallmark of the Manipal experience.
Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M.D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor of MAHE, addressed the audience and reflected on the institution's growth under Dr. Pai's leadership. He emphasized the continuation of Dr. Pai's legacy through expanded scholarship programs, research initiatives addressing societal challenges, and international collaborations.
The celebration concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Dr. Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor of Technology & Science at MAHE. The event (held on a once barren hilltop of Manipal) stands as a testament to the transformative impact made by Dr. T.M.A. Pai on India's education and healthcare sectors.
The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University offering over 400 specializations across HS, Management, Law, MLHS, and T&S streams, strives to uphold Dr. Pai's vision and legacy.
- Dr. Pai's vision of eradicating poverty through education and health care continues to inspire, as seen in the Manipal Academy of Higher Education's commitment to accessible quality education and innovative research.
- The Tribute day at Manipal honored students who excelled in academics and service, such as the Kundapur Mohan and Latha Bhandarkar Scholars, and those who demonstrated exceptional service in nursing and Anganwadi.
- Personal growth, learning, and self-development were integral to Dr. Pai's philosophy, principles upheld by Manipal Academy of Higher Education in its technology, science, management, law, MLHS, and other streams of study.
- The Manipal Group, under Dr. T.M.A. Pai's leadership, has transformed lives through infrastructure development, innovative healthcare services, and quality education, a testament to his pioneering influence in these fields.
