Mangaluru, Dec 19 2017: The 52nd Smrithi Diwas of late Ullal Srinivas Mallya, the architect of modern Mangaluru was observed at the Vishwa Konkani Kendra at Shaktinagar on December 19, Tuesday under the aegis of the Konkani Language and Cultural Foundation, Vishwa Konkani Kendra and the Kannada and Culture Department.
In his introductory address, Basti Vaman Shenoy, President of the Kendra, recalled the yeoman achievements of Late U S Mallya and added that the future generation should derive inspiration from his great works.
Mangaluru Mayor Kavitha Sanil who was the chief guest described Late Mallya as a towering personality who made significant contributions to Mangaluru by being instrumental in the establishment of Mangaluru Airport, the erstwhile KREC which is now known as NIT-K as well as the laying of NH 17 and 42 among other projects that gave the much needed boost for the development of the region.
Corporator Akhila Alva was also present as a chief guest. All the dignitaries present on the occasion offered floral tributes to the portrait of Late Mallya. Prizes were awarded to the winners of the essay competition on the life and achievements of Late Mallya conducted for students of various colleges of DK and Udupi districts.
Venkatesh N Baliga, Vice President of Vishwa Konkani Kendra read out the message by State Minister and Emeritus Chairman of the Kendra R V Deshpande.
Vishwa Konkani Kendra Trustee Gilbert D’Souza, Konkani Bhasha Mandal President Geetha C Kini, Vishwa Konkani Kendra Secretary B Prabhaker Prabhu and others were present.