BANGALORE: Tributes poured in for noted Gandhian and educationist Prof H R Dasegowda on Sunday at a condolence meeting organised by the Karnataka Gandhi Smaraka Nidhi (KGSN). Prof Dasegowda passed away in the city on November 13. Remembering him dearly for the services he rendered at Gandhi Bhavan, Dr Ho Srinivasaiah, president, KGSN, said that his commitment towards Gandhian ideals was indisputable. “For the last seven years, he worked hard for the upliftment of the Gandhi Bhavan. His relentless efforts resulted in an upgraded Gandhi Bhavan, whose infrastructure was a worry. His commitment was such that even when he was hospitalised, he was worried about the developments at KGSN,” he said. Dr Srinivasaiah added that Prof Dasegowda’s aim was to take Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals to the youth. “He visited colleges across the State to promote Gandhian values among students,” he remembered. Veteran journaist and former chairman of Kannada Watchdog Committee Dr Patil Puttappa said,“We have lost Dr Mathoor Krishnamurthy, G Narayan and Prof Dasegowda this year. But due to our weirdness, we realise their value only now. They are no more,” he lamented. “Apart from working towards promoting Gandhian ideals, he had forgotten everything else,” added Dr Puttappa. Born in a farmer’s family in Hireturpi, Anantapur district (Andhra Pradesh), Prof Dasegowda worked as a lecturer in Vidyodaya Law College, Tumkur and later served as Registrar at Bangalore University. At the time of his demise, he was the secretary of the KGSN. “His biggest virtue was that he was able to identify the hidden talents in youngsters. He always encouraged me to read and research extensively. I would not have had a public life if it was not for Prof Dasegowda’s encouragement,” said Justice A J Sadashiva, former justice, Karnataka High Court. H Hanumanthappa, former MP and chairman of Central Silk Board, said that the best way to pay tribute to Prof Dasegowda was by claiming a patent for khadi and declaring it as the national cloth. “At a time when Khadi Gramodyog is suffering, this is the best way to remember him,” he said. ‘Protests only for Show’Commenting on the lacklustre approach of people in supporting causes, veteran journalist Patil Puttappa said that it was unfortunate to see participation in causes driven by media. “I have observed this several times. As soon as the press photographer leaves after covering a protest, the participants also leave,” he stated.He further said the real enemies today are the educated populace. “The so-called ‘educated’ are still afraid of speaking out. They are selfish for their own interests. This includes the likes of advocates and intellectuals,” he opined, adding that the youngsters have to be encouraged towards Gandhian ideals.
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