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Few words of Tribute to Late Mr. B. Seetarama Shetty -(As a Student of National Junior College, Barkur 1974 - 1979)

It’s almost over a week now and our beloved Principal in heavenly abode. A man devoted his life for National Group of Educational Institutions in general and National Junior College in particular for almost 6 decades, in different capacities now not midst of us physically. As we are planning to gather to pay our respects to an illustrious person in B. Seetarama Shetty and thereby console ourselves on Monday, 24th February, 2025 at 2.30 pm, in a place this gentleman of the temple town, historical Barkur, addressed innumerable times and occasions over the years, which will remain as record for generations to come…. The archives and albums, records and certificates, above all your immaculate smile and personal touch….remind and revive both  nostalgic and just other days  memories, in your company...!

Respected teachers, students, alumni, and the beloved family of our dear Principal, Late B. Seetarama Shetty Sir,

Today, I write these few lines  not just as a former student of National Junior College, Barkur, but as a representative of thousands of students whose lives were shaped by the wisdom, discipline, and kindness of a remarkable man—our beloved Seetarama Shetty Sir.

His passing on 12th February 2025 has left a deep void in our hearts. But as we gather here, let us not mourn his departure; instead, let us celebrate the incredible legacy of an extraordinary teacher, a visionary principal, and a true mentor.

A Life Devoted to Education
Born on 14th January 1940, in Kumragodu village, he grew up in a humble yet value-driven household. His journey from St. Anthony’s Higher Primary School in Pandeshwar to Sahyadri College, Shimoga, and later, his MA in Political Science from Karnataka University, Dharwad, reflects his unwavering dedication to learning.

He started as a teacher at Malnad High School, Vandse, but destiny had greater plans for him. In 1963, he arrived at National High School, Barkur, where he served under the able guidance of Head Master Mr. P.N. Bhoja Rao. From 1972, when our school transformed into a Junior College, he took charge as its Founder Principal, leading it for a glorious 26 years until his retirement in 1998.

A Principal like No Other
Seetarama Shetty Sir was more than an administrator—he was a guardian of discipline, a beacon of knowledge, and a source of endless encouragement. We, his students, remember the way he walked through the corridors, his keen eyes missing nothing.

He was strict, yet deeply caring. His discipline was never about fear—it was about shaping character.
He was a teacher first. Even as Principal, he found time to step into classrooms, especially when some teachers absent and explaining the English Grammar, his pet subject and making the most complex topics in Political Science and Social Studies come alive to his flock of Arts students.

He was a guide for all. Whether it was a struggling student, economically poor needing extra help or a teacher seeking advice, his door for counselling was always open.
Many of us owe our success in life to the values he instilled in us—hard work, honesty, and perseverance. His words of encouragement and his belief in our potential pushed us to become not just educated individuals but responsible citizens.

A Family Man, a Role Model
Beyond the school walls, he was a loving husband to Hemavathy Ma’am and a proud father to his three accomplished daughters—Anita, Amitha, and Preetha. His ability to balance family and professional life was truly admirable.

A busy Retired Social life of 27 Years:
After his tenure as the Principal though officially retired, on 31st January, 1998, at his 58, he was found more involved in so many activities of social, religious and cultural significance.  Took charge as Correspondent of NJC Barkur and Secretary of The Barkur Educational Society for a record terms and the period marked with the birth or adopting new Educational Institutions under BES – The National ITI Heradi, SVVN English Medium High School etc speaks in volumes… A man witnessed and steered in three milestone events in different capacities – Silver Jubilee of NHSS IN 1971, as a teacher and President of Old Students Association, Golden jubilee in 1996 as reigning Principal of NJC, and recently in 2023 Platinum Jubilee of National PU College as the Secretary of BES, not only with all pomp and splendours but execution of various Projects commemorating these historical events, just suffice to authenticate his role and responsibilities….

His love for agriculture, rain water harvesting, service in Lions Club of Barkur – Brahmmavar and involvement in such platforms as top office bearer rightly justify his concern for have not’s. Active role in the refurbishments, renovations and rebuilding of many dilapidated temples and Garodi’s have a due share of Principal B Seetarama Shetty in and around Barkur.

His Legacy Lives On:
Sir may not be physically present with us, but his teachings, his ideals, and his impact will remain forever. His legacy is not just in the walls of this institution but in the hearts of every student who walked through these gates.

As we bid farewell to our beloved Principal, let us pledge to uphold the values he stood for. Let us carry forward his vision of education—not just for academic excellence but for building character and integrity.

Sir, your journey was long—85 glorious years—but even that feels too short for a man who gave so much to so many. You may have left us, but your spirit will forever echo in these classrooms and Campus in the laughter of students, in the success of every alumnus, and in the fond memories we cherish.

Rest in peace, dear Sir. You have done your duty with both neatness and greatness. It is now our turn to carry your light forward.
Thank you.

P Archibald Furtado  - Administrative Coordinator – National Group of Educational Institutions – Barkur.