The foundation of the modern SDME Society and the widespread educational landscape of the Ujire region owe their existence to the visionary leadership of Late Shri Ratnavarma Heggade, the 20th Heggade of Dharmasthala. Assuming the responsibility of Dharmadhikari in 1955, he successfully balanced the spiritual leadership of the temple with a progressive mission to advance his father’s educational dreams.
Building an Educational Empire
Ratnavarma Heggade believed that meaningful learning should begin at a young age and remain accessible throughout one’s life. His contributions to the sector include Rathnamanasa Gurukula, SDM College, Ujire (what would become the first degree college in the region) and the SDM Educational Trust.
Preserving Tradition through Healthcare
In 1958, Ratnavarma Heggade took a significant step in preserving ancient Indian wisdom by establishing the Udupi Ayurveda College with a modest group of 20 students and 10 faculty members. This institution served as the cornerstone for future medical excellence, eventually leading to the expansion of authentic Ayurveda knowledge through the SDM College of Ayurveda and Hospital in Hassan (founded in 1992).
Spiritual and Cultural Landmarks
Beyond academia, his vision reached into the realms of art and spirituality. He dreamed of erecting a monumental 39-foot statue of Bahubali atop Ratnagiri Hill in Dharmasthala as a symbol of self-conquest. Though the grueling sculpture work began under his guidance in 1967 at Karkala, the project eventually became a bridge between generations, where his successor, Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, took up the monumental task of transporting and installing the 170-tonne colossus using the limited technology of the 1970s.
Sustained Recognition
Today, his name is synonymous with the growth of Ujire and the surrounding regions. His commitment to holistic development, spanning sports, education, and culture, is immortalized in landmarks like the Shri D. Ratnavarma Heggade (SRH) Stadium, which continues to serve as a hub for youth and athletic excellence.
