Manipal, August 15, 2026: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, celebrated the 80^th Independence Day with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm on the MAHE Manipal campus. The faculty, students, staff, and senior officials marked India’s journey to independence and reaffirmed MAHE’s commitment to education, healthcare service, and nation-building.

Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, hoisted the National Flag, marking the ceremonial highlight of the celebrations. The ceremony was followed by the National Anthem, which brought the MAHE community together in a moment of national pride and unity.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, “Independence Day is a reminder of our collective responsibility for nation-building. Universities play a vital role in this journey by creating knowledge, promoting innovation and nurturing responsible citizens. At MAHE, we remain committed to excellence in education, research, healthcare and community engagement, while preparing our students to become capable professionals and committed contributors to Viksit Bharat.”

The celebration was attended by Dr Karunakar A. Kotegar, Pro Vice Chancellor, Technology & Science; Major General (Dr) Mathews Jacob, VSM (Retd.), Pro Vice Chancellor, Health Sciences; Dr P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar; and Dr Anand Venugopal, Chief Operating Officer, Operations MAHE, along with heads of constituent units, senior officials and invited guests.

Dr Judith Angelitta Noronha, Dean, MCON, Manipal, welcomed the gathering and led the event under the leadership of the institution. The celebrations concluded with a commitment among the MAHE community to contribute to the nation through education, healthcare, research and service.

Among the 26 contingents that took part in the Independence Day march-past, the following are the prize winners.

- 1^st Place:  Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), Manipal

- 2^nd Place: Manipal College of Nursing (MCON), Manipal

- 3^rd Place: Manipal College of Health Professions (MCHP), Manipal

The celebrations were expertly coordinated by Ms Prathibha Lydia Braggs, Lecturer, Department of Mental Health (Psychiatric) Nursing, MCON, Manipal, who served as the Master of the Ceremony, ensuring smooth proceedings throughout the event.