KLE Technological University (KLETU) on Saturday celebrated the 140th birth anniversary of Basappa Veerappa Bhoomaraddi (B.V. Bhoomaraddi), a visionary industrialist and philanthropist, who advocated rural education and community development, on the second day of the techno-cultural festival Pleiades-2025.

Celebrated Indian para-athlete and motivational speaker Shalini Saraswathi garlanded the statue of Bhoomaraddi located on the campus of B.V. Bhoomaraddi College of Engineering and Technology of KLETU.

She was accompanied by Pro Chancellor of KLETU Ashok Shettar, Vice-Chancellor Prakash Tewari, Registrar Basavaraj Anami and senior faculty members and also alumni association members in paying tributes to the great philanthropist.

Born in 1885 in Bannikoppa village of Koppal district, Bhoomaraddi made remarkable contributions to the socio-educational landscape of North Karnataka.

A passionate supporter of rural upliftment, he joined hands with KLE Society in 1946 to establish the B.V. Bhoomaraddi Engineering College in Gadag which was later relocated to Hubballi and went on to evolve as KLE Technological University.

After paying tribute, Ms. Saraswathi delivered an inspiring talk to students narrating his story in her own words. Sharing her story of resilience and transformation, she emphasised the need for determination and purpose in life. She also called upon students to not get disheartened by failures but make them a stepping stone to reach their goals.

The second day of the techno-cultural festival concluded with a live performance by Bollywood pop sensation and actress Dhvani Bhanushali in the evening.

‘Shun distractions’

On Friday, inaugurating the three-day techno-cultural fest, author Chetan Bhagat called upon students to stay away from distractions and have self-regulation while using social media.

He emphasised the need for students to make long-term efforts to achieve something big.

Showing real life examples, he gave several tips to students on how to succeed in their chosen path. He asked students not to allow others to define or decide success for them. “Instead, you should be able to define to them and decide what is success,” he said.

Mr. Bhagat told students that pain, struggle and failure are part of life and none can stay away from them. But through continuous efforts, one can always achieve success, he said.

Appeal

The techno-cultural festival concludes on Sunday and the university has appealed to the public to visit the campus and experience the vibrant showcase of innovation, creativity and cultural heritage presented by its students.