Manipal, January 26, 2026: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, celebrated the 77th Republic Day of India with solemn pride and patriotic spirit in Manipal on Monday.

The celebration commenced with the unfurling of the National Flag by Dr H.S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, followed by the National Anthem and a ceremonial parade. Faculty members, staff, students and NCC cadets actively participated in the programme, reflecting a strong sense of unity and national responsibility.

Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, MAHE, delivered the Republic Day Message, emphasising, “As we celebrate Republic Day, it is important for our youth to embrace discipline, ethical leadership and service to the nation. Education must go beyond classrooms to inspire a deep sense of responsibility towards society and the country. The Indian Constitution stands as a testament to unity in diversity. At MAHE, we strive to nurture an inclusive academic environment that empowers students to uphold these values and lead with purpose.”

Leadership from MAHE attended the Republic Day ceremony, emphasising the event’s significance within the wider academic community. Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor, Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor - Technology & Science, Dr Sharath Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor - Health Sciences, Dr P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar, Dr Vinod V. Thomas, Registrar Evaluation, Dr Anand Venugopal, Chief Operating – Officer Operations, and heads of constituent units, faculty members representing MAHE’s diverse academic landscape. Their participation lent further gravitas to the occasion, reflecting the collective leadership’s commitment to upholding national values and academic excellence.

The event was organized by Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), Manipal.

The Republic Day celebration aimed to honour the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution, while reinforcing the institution’s commitment to discipline, leadership, inclusivity and service to the nation. Students' participation highlighted India’s diversity and democratic ethos. The celebrations also marked 150 years of Vande Mataram, commemorating the enduring legacy of the national song composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay. Vande Mataram has played a pivotal role in India’s freedom movement, inspiring generations with its profound message of patriotism, unity, and devotion to the motherland.

As part of the ceremonial parade, the contingent from Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, secured first place. Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), Manipal, was recognised as the second-best contingent, while Manipal College of Health Professions (MCHP), Manipal, received the third-best contingent award.