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, which was the same year he assumed the mantle of Dharmadhikari, since then – she has spent the following decades carving out a formidable path of her own. As the President of Jnanavikasa, she has transitioned from a supportive partner in the Pergade dynasty to a visionary leader, dedicated to ensuring that the institutional growth of the SDM group directly uplifts the lives of families across Karnataka.
Empowering Women through Jnanavikasa
Smt. Hemavathi V. Heggade is the visionary behind the Jnanavikasa Women’s Program, a subsidiary of the SKDRDP. Her approach to empowerment goes beyond financial aid, focusing on the “Total Development” of women.
Under her leadership, the program provides training in health, hygiene, agriculture, and domestic management, empowering over 1.2 million women to lead more informed and dignified lives. She has been instrumental in organizing “Jnanavikasa Kendras,” where women gather not just for self-help group activities, but to foster community bonds and preserve traditional values.
The Pillar of Vidyadana
In the field of education, Smt. Hemavathi V. Heggade plays a crucial role in ensuring that the SDME Society remains inclusive. She takes a keen interest in the primary and secondary education wings of the SDM group, emphasizing that early education should be a blend of modern science and Indian culture. She is also known for her quiet but impactful work in providing scholarships and moral support to underprivileged students.
Beyond her administrative roles, she is a prolific writer and a deep thinker. Her contributions include – penning books like Namma Maneya Thota (Our Home Garden), which encourages sustainable living and kitchen gardening.
Her speeches and writings often reflect a deep commitment to the concept of Dharma, specifically how it applies to modern family life and the upbringing of the next generation.
Awards and Recognition
Her selfless service has earned her numerous accolades, including – An Honorary Doctorate (D.Litt) from Mangalore University for her outstanding contribution to social work and women’s empowerment, and the “Kittur Rani Chennamma” Award from the Government of Karnataka, recognizing her as a premier leader in the field of women’s welfare.
