Mangalore : Several educational, medical, and other institutions observed World Heart Day in a meaningful manner on September 26, Sunday.

NITTE K. S. Hegde Medical College (KSHEMA), Deralakatte organized a marathon from Pumpwell to IMA Hall on observance of World Heart Day 2011. 

IGP Western Range Alok Mohan flagged off the run in the presence of Vinay Hegde, the chancellor of NITTE University, and Dr. M. Shantaram Shetty, the orthopedic surgeon. The runners enhanced public awareness through slogans and banners.

 KMC Hospital also organized the World Heart Day Run 2011 from KMC, Bejai to KMC Hospital, Ambedkar Circle through Lalbagh, MG Road, PVS Circle, and Bunts Hostel Circle.

Cricketer Javagal Srinath was the chief guest on the occasion, while international athlete Reeth Abraham was torch-bearer for the run

District-in-charge Minister Krishna J. Palemar inaugurated the run and spoke about the importance of science and technology, owing to which people can understand various medical disorders and get them treatment unlike the olden days when cardiac arrest was believed to be the work of evil spirits.

Mangalore MP Nalin Kumar Kateel, Deputy Speaker of Legislative Assembly N Yogish Bhat, City Police chief Seemanth Kumar Singh and Manipal University Registrar Dr G K Prabhu were the guests of honour.