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Bank of Baroda Mangaluru Celebrates 70th Kannada Rajyotsava

By Editor

Posted on November 10, 2025

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Bank of Baroda Mangaluru Celebrates 70th Kannada Rajyotsava

Mangaluru : The 70th Kannada Rajyotsava was celebrated with enthusiasm at the Bank of Baroda (BOB), Zonal Office, Mangaluru, on November 3, 2025. The event was held under the presidency of Mr. Rajesh Khanna, General Manager & Zonal Head, and Mr. Ramesh Kanade, Deputy General Manager.

The celebration was graced by two distinguished Chief Guests: Dr. Vasanth Kumar Perla, a renowned poet, writer, scholar, and former Director of All India Radio, Mangaluru, and Padma Shri awardee Mr. Harekala Hajabba. Both guests significantly enhanced the solemnity and inspiration of the occasion.

Dr. Perla delivered an insightful presentation, detailing the rich history of Karnataka. He focused on the critical issue of the gradual decline in the use of the Kannada language compared to English, strongly urging all attendees to actively promote and ensure the preservation of their mother tongue.

Padma Shri recipient Mr. Harekala Hajabba shared his remarkable and challenging life story. He spoke passionately about his efforts to build a government school for his village by raising money primarily through selling oranges and collecting donations. He also famously donated 1.22 acres of his own land for the school’s construction, an extraordinary philanthropic act for which he was honoured with the Padma Shri award in 2020. He also acknowledged the vital support provided by nationalised banks, including BOB, in his mission.

During the program, the General Manager and Deputy General Manager addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of Karnataka and the Kannada language. They also took the opportunity to felicitate both Dr. Vasanth Kumar Perla and Mr. Harekala Hajabba for their immense contributions to society and literature.

In a meaningful gesture under the Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, Bank of Baroda presented a token contribution of computers to the Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat High School, Harekala. The donation was handed over through Mr. Hajabba, further supporting the educational mission he championed.