Institutions of legacy : SDM Educational Society, Ujire

cover-image-of-UTop-10-Boarding-Schools-in-India-2026

Institutions of Legacy, an initiative dedicated to documenting, showcasing, and celebrating India’s most iconic educational organizations through visually rich coffee table books. Institutions of Legacy seeks to preserve the stories of institutions that have shaped generations. Each edition captures their philosophies, traditions, and innovations, going beyond statistics to highlight the human spirit, values, and inspiration that define educational excellence.

Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Educational (SDME) Society, chosen not only for its academic distinction but also for its enduring blend of tradition and modern vision. The SDME Society oversees 56 institutions across Karnataka, spanning from kindergarten to doctoral programs, all guided by the philosophy of “Adding Value into Education.” Its Central Office in Ujire operates under the leadership of Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, a reformer, educationist, philosopher, and philanthropist whose vision continues to steer the Society’s remarkable growth and reputation.

While Academic Insights remains committed to delivering quality educational insights and reviews, Institutions of Legacy takes a step further, honoring the SDME Society and Dr. Heggade, especially in the year that marks his 78th Birthday. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the SDM Educational Society for opening its doors to us and allowing this story to be one of the important chapters of our new series. On behalf of our Editorial Board, we promise to present authentic facts and perspectives while narrating a story of spirituality, community service, and visionary leadership .

Selection Methodology for Institutions of Legacy

The selection methodology for Institutions of Legacy is a research-driven process supported by expert insights to identify and honor educational organizations with a proven track record of excellence. Beyond academic results, we evaluate institutions based on their foundational history, leadership vision, and long-term impact on society. We prioritize institutes that have remained consistent in their performance while promoting accessible, value-based education and community development. Furthermore, we assess their technological advancement, ensuring they integrate modern infrastructure and digital innovations to prepare students in their path of becoming  future-ready leaders.

List of Institutions/Colleges under SDM Educational Society

SDM Undergraduate (Degree) Colleges  Location
Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) College Ujire
MMK & SDM Mahila Maha Vidyalaya Mysore
SDM Professional Colleges & Institutions  Location
SDM College of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences Ujire
Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College of Education Ujire
SDM Law College Mangaluru
SDM Engineering Colleges  Location
SDM Institute of Technology Ujire
SDM College of Engineering and Technology Dharwad
SDM Wellness Centers  Location
Kshemavana Bengaluru
Shanthivana Dharmasthala
Sowkhyavana Pareeka
SDM Schools  Location
Sri Manjunathaswamy Hr. Pry. School Dharmasthala
SDM Secondary School Ujire
SDM Higher Primary School Ujire
Sri Manjunatheshwara High School Dharmasthala
SDM Higher Primary School Mayyadi
SDM Higher Primary School Puduvettu
SDM Mangalajyothi Integrated School Vamanjoor, Mangalore
SDM High School Perinje
SDM English Medium School Ujire
Sri Laxminarayana Higher Primary School  Kanchana
SDM English. Medium School
  • Dharmasthala & Values:

    old photo of the iconic manjunatheshwara temple in dharmasthala
    History of Dharmasthala

    Legend of Dharmasthala: a Jain family’s devotion led to Shree Manjunatha Swamy Temple, symbolizing unity, charity, and Dharma.

  • live action image of what goes on in the backdrop of annapoorna dining hall, dharmasthala
    Annadana

    Food being one of the important Danas, at Dharmasthala since ages - free food is served to all pilgrims at the famous Annapoorna Dining Hall.

  • Dharmadhikari Dr. D. Heggade addressing the masses
    Abhayadana

    Abhayadana at Dharmasthala ensures justice via Huyilu system, inspiring SDM Law College....

  • Collage of various endeavors carried out at SDM, including hospital photos
    Aushadhadana

    Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Medical Trust, established in 1979 under the guidance of Poojya Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade......

  • A collage of different colleges and institutes of SDM
    Vidyadana

    Education at Dharmasthala is seen as the most powerful weapon against poverty and ignorance, a belief inherited from Late Shri Manjayya Heggade...

  • SDM Leadership Legacy:

    picture of late shri Ratnavarma Heggade
    Late Shri Ratnavarma Heggade

    Ratnavarma Heggade advanced education at Dharmasthala by founding SDM College and SDME Trust....

  • picture of late manjayya-heggade
    Late Shri Manjayya Heggade

    Manjayya Heggade pioneered education in Dharmasthala, founded schools, fought malaria, and revived Gurukula traditions...

  • picture of dr. d Veerendra Heggade
    Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade

    Discover the inspiring journey of Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, Dharmadhikari of Dharmasthala, and how he built 50+ SDM institutions.

  • picture of sri-d-harshendra-kumar
    Sri D. Harshendra Kumar

    As the Secretary of the SDME Society and a core member of the Dharmasthala family, Sri D. Harshendra Kumar is the silent engine behind the seamless execution of the society.

  • picture of sri d surendra kumar
    Sri D. Surendra Kumar

    As the Vice President of the SDME Society (Ujire) and the SDM Educational Trust (Bangalore), Shri D. Surendra Kumar plays a pivotal role.

  • picture of dr. Satheeshchandra
    Dr. Satheeshchandra S

    As the Secretary of the SDME Society, Dr. Satheeshchandra S brings a profound depth of academic experience and administrative acumen.

  • picture of dr. Niranjan Kumar
    Dr. Niranjan Kumar

    At the intersection of surgical precision and transformative leadership stands Dr. Niranjan Kumar, the founding Vice Chancellor of SDM University.

  • picture of dr. jeevandhar kumar
    Shri V. Jeevandhar Kumar

    As the Secretary of the SDME Society in Dharwad, Shri V. Jeevandhar Kumar serves as a pivotal leader responsible for sustaining and expanding.

  • photo of smt hemavathi heggade - sdm
    Smt. Hemavathi V Heggade

    Smt. Hemavathi V. Heggade stands as a pillar of grace and social reform within the Dharmasthala legacy. While her journey alongside Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade began with their marriage in 1968.

  • photo of padmalatha-niranjan-sdm
    Smt. Padmalatha Niranjan

    Within the administrative structure of Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) University, Smt. Padmalatha Niranjan serves as a vital bridge.

  • photo of d shreyes kumar
    Mr. D. Shreyes Kumar

    In the vast and complex landscape of the Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) Educational Society, Mr. D. Shreyes Kumar serves as the Director of Projects.

  • picture of smt. Shraddha-Amith
    Smt. Shraddha Amith

    Learn about Smt. Shraddha Amith, her role at Kshemavana Bengaluru, education in psychology, and contributions to wellness and social initiatives.

  • picture of mr. Saketh Shetty
    Mr. Saketh Shetty

    Mr. Saketh Shetty, a young and Dynamic Director Administration is a new hope to SDM University. A graduate of Information Science.

  • picture of d nischal-kumar-sdm
    Mr. Nischal D

    As the Director of Finance for the Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Educational (SDME) Society, Mr. Nischal D plays a critical role in the strategic governance.

  • picture of late prof. s Prabhakar
    Late Prof. S. Prabhakar

    Learn about Late Prof. S. Prabhakar, founding principal of SDM College Ujire, distinguished academic, administrator....

  • picture of late dr. b. Yashovarma
    Late Dr. B. Yashovarma

    Discover Dr. Yashovarma, Botany scholar and former Principal of SDM College Ujire, known for academic excellence, NAAC ‘A’ grades, and the “True Education” initiative....

    • SDM's Landmarks:

      larger than life image of Payana
      Payana

      Payana is a premier automotive museum that celebrates the evolution of human mobility, envisioned by Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade

    • image of SDM IMD, SDM's most ambitious educational institute so far
      SDM Institute for Management Development, Mysore

      SDMIMD Mysuru offers AICTE-approved PGDM with global accreditations, 10.1 LPA avg placements, international exposure, AI-driven learning, and top recruiters..

    • image of sdm college of Ayurveda udupi, one of the oldest of colleges under the sdm banner
      SDM College of Ayurveda, Hospital & Research Center, Udupi

      SDM Ayurveda College Udupi offers BAMS, MD, MS & PhD with NABH hospital, 310 beds, global rank, research excellence, and holistic Ayurvedic healthcare....

    • image of one of the prestigious sdm colleges - sdm law college mangalore
      SDM Law College, Mangaluru

      Explore SDM Law College Mangaluru, a premier law institution offering BA LLB, BBA LLB, LLB & LLM with research center, moot court innovations, and strong alumni.......

    • SDM Mangala Jyothi Integrated School
      SDM Mangala Jyothi Integrated School, Vamanjoor

      Discover SDM Mangala Jyothi Integrated School Vamanjoor, offering inclusive education, vocational training, and holistic support for children with disabilities....

    • image of sdm college of naturopathy and Yogic Sciences
      SDM College of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences, Ujire

      Explore SDM College of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences Ujire, Asia’s first naturopathy college offering BNYS, MD, and PhD programs with global recognition.....

    • image of rudset-institute
      RUDSET INSTITUTE

      RUDSETI, established in 1982 under the leadership of Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, promotes rural entrepreneurship through skill-based training, self-employment program...

    • Beyond Education :

      mass marriage ceremony conducted at sdm
      Mass Marriage Programme

      The Mass Marriage Programme initiated by Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade supports thousands of underprivileged couples with debt-free weddings

    • women working under the intitiatives of siri Gramodyoga
      Shri Dharmasthala Siri Gramodyoga Samsthe

      Shri Dharmasthala Siri Gramodyoga Samsthe is a Section 8 nonprofit organization, established in 2004 with support from the Shree Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project..