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A Heartfelt Tribute to a Legend: Principal B. Seetarama Shetty

On the solemn afternoon of February 24, 2025, at 2:30 PM, the NJC Auditorium bore witness to an outpouring of love, respect, and deep sorrow as the Barkur Educational Society, esteemed colleagues, students, and well-wishers gathered to pay homage to an extraordinary educator, mentor, and guiding light—Late Principal B. Seetarama Shetty. Having lived a remarkable life of 85 years, he departed from this world on February 12, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that will forever illuminate the corridors of education and society.

As the ceremonial oil lamps were lit and the revered portrait garlanded, the air grew heavy with emotions. Mr. Ashok Kumar Shetty, Secretary of the Barkur Educational Society, extended a warm yet poignant welcome, standing in the very place where the Principal had once inspired generations with his powerful words and unwavering commitment.

A Life Remembered, a Legacy Cherished:
Vice President of the Barkur Educational Society, Mr. Shedikodlu Vittal Shetty, took the gathering down memory lane, reminiscing about his lifelong bond with the departed soul—a childhood friend, a schoolmate at National High School, and later, a highly professional colleague. He fondly spoke of Principal Shetty’s loving family—his devoted wife, Hemalatha, his three daughters, their husbands, and his cherished extended family. He painted a portrait of a man who was not only a visionary leader in education but also a pillar of strength and virtue within his home and community.

Former Principal of Hiriyadka Junior College, Mrs. Laxmi Bai, representing Bharatiya Vikas Trust, recalled the warmth and wisdom of a man whose kindness knew no bounds. With tearful eyes, she honoured his saintly nature and compassionate spirit, qualities that touched the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Ms. Akshata, Lecturer in Computer Science, along with her team, presented a touching PowerPoint tribute, chronicling the Principal’s incredible 85-year journey. His relentless service to education, his contributions to social, religious, and cultural spheres, and his steadfast belief in values were vividly showcased; bringing back fond memories of a towering personality whose influence will endure beyond generations.

Voices of Gratitude and Admiration:
The hall resonated with heartfelt tributes from distinguished speakers who had shared a professional and personal bond with the late Principal:
Mr. Y. Mohan Rao, former lecturer in Commerce, reflected on their 23-year association and the wisdom he imbibed from his mentor.
Mr. Karunakar Shetty, President of NJC Alumni Association, emphasized how the Principal’s nurturing spirit shaped the lives of countless students.
Mr. Srinivasa Shetty, President of Lions Club Barkur, highlighted his selfless service to society.

Mr. Bhaskar Shetty, Principal of Government First Grade College, Barkur, lauded his unwavering dedication to education and moral values and support to Degree College. Heads of the National Group of Educational Institutions paid their respects, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of a fatherly figure who moulded the academic institutions of Barkur into beacons of excellence.Among them were:

Mrs. Usha Kiran Shetty, NJC Principal gave a touching laudation to a great teacher of yester years and an able administrator.
Mr. Venktesh Kramadhari, National ITI Heradi Principal, remembered Principals concerns and service to ITI in many ways and his affectionate nature over the last 40 years.

Mrs. Likhita Kotari, Principal, SVVN English Medium High School, Heradi Barkur had all praise for Principals – best practiced principles, discipline, punctuality and taking all into confidence.

Mr. Udaya Kumar Shetty, Headmaster, National Higher Primary School, Uddalgudde declared Principal B Seetarama Shetty only valuable gem in the heap people dedicated a life for welfare of all in the society.

Mr. Ratnakar Shetty, Correspondent, Rukmani Shedthi National Higher Primary School, Heradi Barkur highlighted the distinct features and qualities of a man of the century in Barkur.

Their collective homage was a testimony to the indelible mark he left on the educational landscape and the countless lives he transformed with his wisdom, discipline, and unwavering commitment.

Carrying Forward His Vision
The ceremony concluded with an inspiring address by Mr. B. Shantharama Shetty, President of the Barkur Educational Society, who eloquently summarized the sentiments of all present. He called upon teachers, students, and admirers to honour the late Principal’s memory by realizing his dream—restoring the glory, discipline, and excellence of the National Educational Institutions in this royal town Barkur. He urged all to unite in this noble mission, ensuring that his legacy continues to thrive in the halls of learning and coexistence of all communities in harmony, love and friendship….

In a final act of reverence, all present offered floral tributes, each petal symbolizing love, respect, and an unbreakable bond with a man whose presence will forever be felt in the hearts of those he touched.

A Great Son of Barkur, a Timeless Inspiration
As the curtains fell on this emotional tribute, one truth remained eternal—Principal B. Seetarama Shetty was not just an educator but an institution in himself. His teachings, values, and principles will continue to guide future generations, lighting the path of wisdom and integrity for years to come.

Many friends, admirers, past and present students, former companions and co-workers, Teachers of all the National Educational Institutions, prominent people from the town gathered had something to share and feel from inside as the words of homage to a great man concluded, Rest in peace, dear Principal. Your legacy lives on.
P. Archibald Furtado.