Mangaluru: While a popular saying goes that students forget their teachers and patients forget doctors once their work is done, the alumni of Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple (SDPT) College, Kateel, have proved that “the gurus who shape life are everything.”
Established nearly three decades ago in the hilly region near the legendary Kateel Temple—then considered a remote hamlet—Sri Durgaparameshwari College has today earned national recognition. In its early days, many questioned who would climb the hill to study. The answer lies in the success stories of its alumni, many of whom now occupy prestigious positions across dozens of countries.
Inspired by the Anna Dasoha tradition of the Kateel Temple, the concept of Akshara Dasoha took root at the institution a decade ago and continues uninterrupted. Faculty members, acknowledged as the true architects of this success, were felicitated during the SDPT REUNION, setting a powerful example of gratitude and respect for teachers.
Hundreds of alumni of SDPT First Grade College are today serving in senior roles worldwide. Former students are also key contributors to the chartered accountant fraternity, leading professional teams in over a hundred reputed institutions.
The SDPT REUNION, held at Kateel on Sunday (December 21, 2025), brought together accomplished alumni from diverse fields on a single platform for a unique brainstorming session. The day-long programme featured business leaders, professionals, scholars, Vedic experts and social activists from different countries. Entrepreneurs mentored aspiring start-up founders, while scholars revisited their roles as students by reconnecting with their former teachers.
Senior Professor Nagesh Rao highlighted the rapid evolution of technology and stressed the importance of prioritising artificial intelligence learning for future generations.
Senior Sanskrit Professor Dr. Sonda Bhaskara Bhat spoke on the role of spirituality in strengthening mental and physical well-being amid professional pressures.
Professor Dr. Krishna Kanchan underlined the importance of auditing across disciplines and expressed pride in the large number of SDPT alumni excelling in the field.
Professor Keshav H emphasised that service to society ultimately returns in different forms and called for a spirit of dedication.
Professor Dr. Vijaya Kumar described the teacher–student bond as an intrinsic value and advocated regular reunion programmes in educational institutions to foster social harmony.
Retired Principal Balakrishna Shetty said that remembering teachers forms the foundation of an educational institution.
Professor Jagadish Chandra urged alumni to let their education guide the lives of others and to remain pillars of support for their alma mater.
Physical Education Director Jayaram Shetty stressed that physical activity should be an integral part of daily life, not limited to schools and colleges, to ensure long-term health.
The SDPT REUNION also emerged as a platform for discussing initiatives such as plastic-free environments, educational reforms and skill development, reinforcing the enduring bond between gurus and shishyas.