SDM Law College Celebrates 50 Years with a Grand Founders Day Event
Mangaluru, December 16th, 2024: Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) Law College, a distinguished institution in legal education, proudly marks its Golden Jubilee Celebrations, ‘Suvarna Patha,’ on December 14, 2024, with the Founders Day Celebration held at TMA Pai International Convention Centre. The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, faculty, students, and alumni, marking the institution’s 50-year journey of shaping the future of legal education in India.
The event included the felicitation of Hon’ble Justice Murali Krishna, Advocate Sri. Udaya Holla, Prof. A. Rajendra Shetty, and Advocate Sri. Rohith Rao. The ceremony was inaugurated by Hon’ble Justice Murali Krishna of the Kerala High Court, who highlighted the critical role of legal education in societal advancement. Poojya Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, President of SDME Society, extended his blessings, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to nurturing future legal professionals.
A significant highlight was the release of two books: Legal Opus, a comprehensive legal compendium, and Legal Writing, authored by Mrs. Ujwala, Associate Professor at SDM Law College, underscoring the institution’s focus on scholarly contributions.
The day commenced with the arrival of visitors and lined-up cultural performances such as the National Anthem, Naada Geethe, and a traditional welcome dance performed by SDM students. The Principal, Vice Principal, and department heads accompanied the dignitaries to the dais.
In his welcome address, Dr. Tharanatha, Principal of SDM Law College, highlighted the institution’s significant contributions to legal education and its unwavering commitment to empowering students from diverse backgrounds.
Delivering the Founders Day Address, Senior Advocate Udaya Holla of the Karnataka High Court emphasized the college’s pivotal role in nurturing legal minds and its enduring impact on the legal fraternity.
The ceremony honored distinguished individuals, including Justice Murali Krishna, Advocate Udaya Holla, Prof. A. Rajendra Shetty, and Advocate Rohith Rao, recognized their exemplary contributions to the legal profession.
A highlight of the event was the release of two significant publications: Legal Opus, unveiled by esteemed dignitaries, and Legal Writing, authored by Mrs. Ujwala, Associate Professor at SDM Law College, underscoring the institution’s dedication to academic and literary excellence.
Reflecting on the occasion, Poojya Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, President of SDME Society, remarked, “Law and dharma are rooted in morality and ethics, with India’s tradition drawing from the wisdom of sages, Vedas, and Upanishads. Law reflects social behavior based on fairness and human relationships. As human behavior and societal conditions evolve, it is essential to have a system flexible enough to adapt for sustainable growth. Guided by sacred principles like ‘Dharmo rakshati rakshitaha’ and ‘Sarvo janah sukhino bhavantu,’ the laws of the land must promote social justice and human conscience. The growth of Mangalore Law College and the invaluable contributions of its leaders and faculty stand as a testament to the institution’s quality, and it will continue to evolve, embracing necessary changes for the future.”
Hon’ble Justice Murali Krishna emphasized that the college has not only imparted legal knowledge but also instilled values such as integrity, fairness, and service in its students and shared his insights, stating, “The strength of our democracy lies in its constitutional pillars: the legislature, executive, judiciary, and media. Institutions like SDM Law College are vital in upholding law and order, the foundation of a just society. As a proud alumnus, this golden jubilee celebration fills me with nostalgia for the days when this esteemed institution shaped my mind and nurtured countless legal enthusiasts who have advanced the rule of law and societal progress. As we celebrate this milestone, we acknowledge the invaluable role SDM Law College has played in shaping future generations and continue to inspire and equip its students to uphold the ideals of law and serve the nation with distinction.”
Senior Advocate Udaya Holla of the Karnataka High Court shared his thoughts, stating, “In 1973, I took my first step into the field of law, and it is an immense honor to witness nurtured legal enthusiasts carrying the torch forward, inspiring and shaping the next generation of legal minds. SDM Law College has produced a remarkable legacy, including High Court judges, a Supreme Court judge, senior counsels, an Additional Solicitor General, and a thriving community of service-oriented lawyers dedicated to the nation. This institution has every reason to celebrate 50 years of its journey with pride and fulfillment. Throughout its evolution, SDM Law College has maintained its commitment to imparting quality knowledge, embracing challenges, and celebrating achievements. It has adapted to the nation’s growth and generational changes while continuing to inspire and empower students to uphold the ideals of justice and serve the nation with excellence.”
The day-long event concluded with spectacular cultural performances by SDM students and a Folk Orchestra, showcasing Karnataka’s rich heritage and captivating the audience. The Golden Jubilee festivities not only celebrated a significant milestone in SDM Law College’s history but also reinforced the institution’s dedication to excellence in legal education and holistic development.
