Udupi: Malabar Gold and Diamonds, Udupi, celebrated Teachers’ Day by felicitating educators for their invaluable contributions to society at a special programme held at its showroom on September 5.

Floral tributes and celebrations

The event began with floral tributes to Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, former President of India, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony with dignitaries and teachers.

On this occasion, six teachers were honoured:

  • Denis Banz, principal, Government PU College Manur Padukere

  • Jaya Shetty, teacher, Government Higher Primary School Kachur, Hebri

  • Mohiddin, teacher, Karnataka Public School Padubidri

  • Prakash Shetty, principal, Government PU College Kokkarne

  • Dr Dayanand Pai, principal, SVS PU College Katapady

  • Kristika, teacher, Nachiketha Vidyalaya, Amruthabharathi Institution, Bailoor

    • A special recognition was also given to Vidhushi Deeksha V, who recently set a world record by performing Bharatanatyam continuously for 216 hours, earning a place in the Golden Book of World Records.

    Leaders praise teachers’ role

    Former MLA Lalaji R Mendon lauded the teaching profession, saying, “Teachers have always corrected and shaped us. India’s progress is largely due to their immense contribution.” He also congratulated Deeksha for her endurance and her husband for his constant support during the dance marathon.

    Hariprasad Rai, president of Udupi District Athletic Association, highlighted the transformative role of teachers, while Geetanjali Suvarna, former Zilla Panchayat member, praised Malabar Gold for its social initiatives, describing it as a “true face of social service.”

    Value of education and challenges

    In her introductory note, Vidya Saraswathi reflected on the evolving role of teachers, noting that while discipline has become more challenging in modern times, teachers continue to provide value-based education.

    Felicitated teachers also shared their experiences.

    • Deeksha, speaking after receiving the honour, said she runs a dance school and plans to establish an academy for underprivileged children.

  • Denis Banz thanked Malabar for supporting students with scholarships worth ₹1 lakh this year, stressing the need for value-based learning amid modern challenges like mobile addiction.

  • Prakash Shetty praised Malabar’s scholarships and urged more support for rural students.

  • Kristika, a trans woman teacher, expressed pride in continuing her profession with dignity, crediting education for giving her strength.

    • Other dignitaries who shared their thoughts included Mohiddin of Karnataka Public School Padubidri, Dr Charishma Shetty, and Dr Dayanand Pai of SVS PU College Katapady.

    Conclusion

    The event concluded with store head Hafeez Rahaman delivering the vote of thanks, while Vignesh welcomed the gathering and compered the programme. Staff members, well-wishers, and the general public were present, making the celebration a memorable occasion.