The annual sports meet of Kodagu Vidyalaya was held with great enthusiasm in Madikeri city, with active participation from students and teachers.
The Olympic torch of the sports festival was lit by Kundyolanda Dinesh Cariappa, President of the Coorg Hotels and Resorts Association.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner Venkataraju said that sports promote physical fitness while also developing mental strength, discipline and leadership qualities. He advised students to accept victory and defeat with equal grace and to move forward with confidence and hard work. Emphasising the importance of friendship in personality development, he said that facing failure with courage is a key leadership trait. He further noted that maintaining mental balance in stressful situations and practising humility are qualities that lead individuals to greater heights.
Speaking on the occasion, Kundyolanda Dinesh Cariappa highlighted the challenges faced by students due to the impact of social media and the declining sense of mutual respect between students and teachers. Stating that academic achievement alone does not guarantee success in life, he explained through real-life examples that there are immense opportunities in various fields. He stressed the importance of choosing good friends and cultivating a positive attitude.
Kodagu Vidyalaya Principal K.S. Sumitra praised the dedicated service of teachers, the cooperation of parents and the support of the management board, stating that these factors have enabled comprehensive development of students. She assured that more programmes focusing on quality education, discipline, value-based teaching and all-round development would be introduced in the coming academic year.
Deputy Commissioner Venkataraju and Dinesh Cariappa presented the Nethra Ganapathy prizes and awards to students who achieved excellence in various fields in 2025. The Deputy Commissioner also inaugurated the sports meet and food stalls. Special fun sports events were organised for parents as well.
Students participated enthusiastically in various sports competitions, with the Bapu Group winning the overall championship.
Teacher Anjan P.N. and student Sona Muthamma, along with students Yashika Shetty and Pranav P., compered the programme. Student Trinad and teacher Sona Muthamma introduced the guests. Student Janya C.T. welcomed the gathering, and Kaushal C.P. proposed the vote of thanks.
Kodagu Vidyalaya Board of Directors Vice-President (Academics) Urvashi Muddaya, Sports Chairperson Raghu Madappa, Advisory Board Member Kumar Subbaiah, Secretary B.S. Poonachha, committee members Gurudutt, Niyatha Devaiah and Somanna, Principal K.S. Sumitra, Administrative Officer Ravi P., Major Damodar, Opportunity School Advisor Meena Cariappa, Secretary Veena Changappa and Advisory Board Member Pushpa Kuttanna were present.
The students’ marching band performance and welcome dance added colour to the programme. The dance performance by children of Opportunity School, Kodagu Vidyalaya, captivated the audience.
