India’s higher education system faces numerous challenges related to quality, particularly as the country strives to position itself as a key player in the post-globalization knowledge economy. In this context, academic leaders, who serve as the custodians of quality, innovation, and creativity in higher education, must urgently address the shortcomings and inefficiencies to make it more professional and globally competitive. This is where visionaries like Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade play a pivotal role. As President of the SDM Educational Society, Dr. Heggade has emerged as one of the most respected figures in Indian education, championing quality education across its institutions, regardless of students’ backgrounds.
A Legacy of Service and Empowerment
Born on November 25, 1948, in Dharmasthala, Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade comes from a lineage steeped in service and spirituality. At just 20 years old, he took on the mantle of Dharmadhikari (chief administrator) in 1968, following the passing of his father, Ratnavarma Heggade.
Under his visionary leadership, the Dharmasthala Temple has become a beacon of hope for the underprivileged, with the Annadana program providing free meals to thousands daily, regardless of caste, creed, or religion. Beyond this, the temple has initiated numerous projects in education, healthcare, and housing, transforming countless lives.
Education, in particular, stands as a cornerstone of Dr. Heggade’s philanthropic efforts. Under his stewardship, the SDM Educational Society was established, overseeing a network of schools and colleges that offer quality education to students from all walks of life.
As the President
Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade has made remarkable contributions to the field of education, transforming the SDME Society into a beacon of learning and empowerment. As the President of the SDM Group of Institutions, he oversees 56 institutions across Karnataka, offering a wide range of programs from Kindergarten to Doctoral Studies. His leadership extends across various educational disciplines, from primary education to medical, Ayurvedic, engineering, and management studies, along with hospitals.
One of his notable achievements is the establishment of SDMIMD College in Mysore, which has grown into one of India’s top business schools. He also founded Sri Siddavana Gurukula, a model hostel that trains college students in agriculture, moral education, and leadership, as well as Rathnamanasa, a model hostel for high school boys in Ujire that focuses on agriculture, horticulture, and dairying. Furthermore, under his guidance, Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College in Ujire introduced a postgraduate program, expanding opportunities for higher learning.
In addition to his educational endeavors, Dr. Heggade’s visionary projects, such as the Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (SKDRDP), have redefined rural development, women’s empowerment, and entrepreneurship, setting a benchmark for holistic growth and social impact.
A Visionary Leader
Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade’s vision extends beyond education, significantly impacting healthcare, social harmony, and rural development. Dr. Heggade is also a champion of communal harmony in India, where diversity often presents challenges. Through the inclusive ethos of the Dharmasthala Temple, he has fostered an environment of mutual respect and unity, welcoming pilgrims from all faiths.
His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Padma Bhushan, recognizing his exceptional service to the nation. His legacy of philanthropy and social service continues to inspire, as he remains a guiding force for the Dharmasthala community and beyond. On July 6, 2022, Dr. Heggade became a member of the Rajya Sabha, further extending his influence in public service.
A strong advocate for rural development, Dr. Heggade has spearheaded initiatives across 600 villages and six towns in coastal Karnataka, focusing on agricultural extension, women’s empowerment, housing, microfinance, healthcare, education, and promoting alternative energy sources like solar power. He has also been instrumental in feeding over 70,000 pilgrims daily through the Annapurna kitchen at Dharmasthala, which gained recognition on National Geographic’s ‘Mega Kitchens.’
One of Dr. Heggade’s notable social contributions is his fight against alcohol abuse and his organization of mass marriages at Dharmasthala, aimed at reducing the financial burden of dowries. To date, 12,262 couples have benefited from these ceremonies. He has also built marriage halls in Bangalore, Kallahalli, Bhadravathi, Mysore, Shravanabelagola, and Bantwal for middle- and low-income families.
Additionally, in collaboration with Syndicate Bank, Syndicate Agricultural Foundation, and Canara Bank, Dr. Heggade helped establish the Rural Development and Self-Employment Training Institute (RUDSETI), which now operates 27 branches across India. The institute has trained numerous young people, achieving a settlement rate of 73% by March 2020.
A Beacon of Hope
Dr. D Veerendra Heggade’s life work is a profound testament to the transformative power of kindness. His legacy is etched in the lives of those he has uplifted, embodying the true spirit of philanthropy, communal harmony, and human welfare. His enduring impact serves as a lasting example of how one leader’s commitment can touch countless lives and foster a brighter future.
