Mangaluru : Shakthi Fest at Shakthi Residential School was inaugurated on 31st January at Shakthi Auditorium of the school.

Vani Rajgopal, a well known Bharatanatya artiste was the chief guest on the occasion. She said that the students should take keen interest in Fine Arts apart from their studies. Money only is not the criteria to lead a peaceful life. Our involvement in cultural activities imparts a peaceful mind which must be the primary thing in our life, she said.

Sr. Maria S.L. D’souza, the headmistress of Sacred Heart High School Kulshekar was another chief guest. If the opportunities are created in educational institutions, children will unfurl their talents and skills. Thus the schools and colleges have to open opportunities for the learners she said.

The Padmashree Awardee Sri Harekala Hajabba was felicitated on this occasion. Mr. Baikady Janardana Achar, the Administrator of Shakthi Institutions introduced Hajabba to the audience. In reply to this felicitation Hajappa said that he was not after publicity or felicitations. When he was young, he said that he was deprived of education. Therefore, he decided to start an educational institution in remote place to impart education to the deprived of. A major portion of his earnings he set aside for this purpose throughout his life, he said. He never thought of getting Padmashree Award for his humble and dedicated work.

Mr. K.C. Naik, the managing trustee of Shree Gopalakrishna Temple presided over the function. He said Mr. Hajabba is the best example to how a common man can achieve the heights and reach the goal with dedication and sacrifice. Mr. Guruvappa Balepuni, Journalist working for Hosadigantha was felicitated for his identifying the services of Hajabba through his article for the first time years ago.

Vidya Kamath, the principal of the school welcomed the gathering. Smt. Rekha proposed the vote of thanks. Swathi Bharath compered the programme. The principal expressed her happiness for over 250 students participated in the Shakthi Fest on the first day. Mr. Ramesh K, the chief Advisor of Shakthi Education Trust, Mr. Prakyath Rai, the institute Development officer, Mr. Prabhakara G.S, the Principal of Shakthi P.U.College, Mr. Neema Saxena, the co-ordinator of Shree Gopalakrishna Pre-school were present on the stage.