Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, organised the New Year Awards 2026 to honour five distinguished personalities for their exceptional contributions to society, public service, arts, education, and culture. The awards ceremony was held in collaboration with the Academy of General Education (AGE), Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), Bengaluru, Manipal Media Network Ltd, and the Dr. TMA Pai Foundation.
The event was graced by senior leaders of the Manipal Group, including Dr H S Ballal, President of AGE and Pro Chancellor of MAHE; Mrs Vasanti R Pai, Trustee, MAHE Trust; Dr Ranjan R Pai, Chairman, MEMG, Bengaluru and President, MAHE Trust; Shri T Satish U Pai, Executive Chairman, Manipal Media Network Ltd and Vice President, AGE; and Shri T Sachin Pai, Trustee, Dr. TMA Pai Foundation.
The award recipients for 2026 were Shri K Jayaprakash Hegde, Former Minister for Ports and Fisheries, Government of Karnataka; Shri K Lakshminarayanan, Former Executive Director, Canara Bank; Dr Thumbay Moideen, Founder President, Thumbay Group, UAE; Mrs Vinaya Prasad, acclaimed Indian cine artist; and Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, MAHE.
Addressing the gathering, Dr H S Ballal said the awards reflect MAHE’s commitment to recognising individuals whose work strengthens the cultural, intellectual, and social fabric of society. He noted that honouring excellence goes beyond celebration and serves as an inspiration for future generations.
Speaking on the occasion, Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh expressed gratitude and dedicated the recognition to the collective efforts of the MAHE community, including faculty, researchers, staff, students, and partners who contribute to the institution’s growth.
Shri K Jayaprakash Hegde reflected on his work in advancing social inclusion initiatives in Karnataka, while Shri K Lakshminarayanan shared his professional journey in India’s banking sector and his association with the Manipal legacy.
Mrs Vinaya Prasad highlighted her artistic journey across multiple Indian film industries and praised MAHE’s role in nurturing art and learning. Dr Thumbay Moideen described the award as a recognition of the collective efforts of the Thumbay Group in healthcare, education, and research.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr (Cdr) Anil Rana, Director, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal.
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