Bangalore varsity toppers share their toils and triumphs

By Rithu Dravid | NT

Bengaluru: It was the most memorable day in the life of Kaladhari Bhavani. The visually challenged student from Surana College, Kengeri had won the first rank in Master’s in psychology examination conducted by the Bangalore University. On Friday, she received the gold medal for her outstanding performance during the university’s 56th annual convocation. “I have been waiting for this day,” said Bhavani after receiving the medal.

“This could not have happened without the support of my parents, sister, family, friends and the faculty members. I will take up a career as a psychologist and will support and help people with mental health issues,” said the multi-talented Bhavani, who has been performing Carnatic classical music for more than 15 years.

At the ceremony held at the Jnana Jyothi auditorium, 68,000 students received various degrees. The university presented 321 gold medals to 186 students and 132 cash prizes to top-scoring students. As many as 127 doctorates were also conferred on those who completed PhDs. Honorary doctorates were given to ISKCON president Madhu Pandita Das, renowned visual artist S G Vasudeva and Kannada actor and social worker M S Muthuraj.

The convocation procession was led by the university vice-chancellor, members of the syndicate and the academic council members.

Sharen Thumboo too was on cloud nine after receiving the gold medal for securing first rank in journalism and mass communication. The South African national, who studied with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholarship, said she would take home the best of what she has learnt. “Indeed, it is a very happy moment for me and my family,” said Thumboo, who is currently pursuing a doctorate in women’s studies.

Praveen Kumar, who received PhD in management studies, too couldn’t hide his emotions. The farmer’s son who hails from a village Gauribidanoor taluk is all praise for the social welfare department for helping to fulfill his dream . “I couldn’t have completed my PhD without the support of the Social Welfare department which paid my fee,” he said.

Nandini V, who completed BSc in maths, physics and chemistry won 12 gold medals at the event. Raised by a single mother, who is a daily-wage worker, Nandini studied in government colleges all through these years. “I am from a poor family and I could not afford to study in private institutions. I want to be independent and responsible because I know my mother’s struggles,” said Nandini, who is currently pursuing an MSc in Chemistry at the Central College campus of the Bengaluru City University.

Karnataka Governor and the University Chancellor Thawar Chand Gehlot presided over the convocation. The Director, National Assessment and Accreditation Council, Dr S.C. Sharma was the chief guest and delivered the convocation address. Minister of Higher Education and Pro-Chancellor, C.N. Ashwath Narayan did not attend the function.