Haveri: The Mailara Mahadev National Memorial Trust (MMNMT) has proposed renaming Haveri University after freedom fighter Mailara Mahadeva, a key participant in India’s struggle for independence. At a meeting chaired by Haveri DC and Trust chairman Vijay Mahantesh Danammanavar, members unanimously supported the proposal, highlighting Mahadeva’s pivotal role in the Dandi March and Quit India Movement before his martyrdom at just 32.
Established in March 2023, Haveri University, which was carved out of Karnatak University, Dharwad, currently operates six postgraduate departments in Haveri district. Previously a postgraduate centre in Kerimattihalli, the institution represents a vital step in enhancing regional education.
Trustee VN Tippanagoudra passionately advocated for the renaming, emphasizing Mahadeva’s legacy. He noted that Mahadeva was the only participant from the former Mysuru state in Mahatma Gandhi’s Dandi March on March 12, 1930. Born in Motebennur village of Byadagi taluk and later residing in Koradur, Mahadeva founded the Gandhi Sevashram, rallying people to boycott British goods and embrace local products.
The railway department has already named Haveri railway station after Mailara Mahadeva, and the Trust believes the university’s renaming would further honor his sacrifice. Trustee Satish Kulkarni underscored the need to educate the younger generation about Mahadeva’s valor, referring to him as “Karnataka’s Bhagat Singh.”
Academician Prof GB Kalkoti urged the state government to recognize the importance of preserving such legacies. “We owe our independence to heroes like Mahadeva. Renaming the university will inspire students to connect with their heritage and value the sacrifices of freedom fighters,” he remarked.
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