Mysore/Mysuru: Mysore Toastmasters celebrated its landmark 600th meeting and 16th anniversary in city recently.

 The milestone event brought together members, alumni, dignitaries and guests for an afternoon of inspiring speeches, engaging contests and reflections on the club’s journey.

The programme began with a warm-up session led by Sai Jog and S. Himaan Harish.

The lamp was lit by Gokul P. Menon, DTM, District 121 Director; Prathapmohan Nair, DTM, Club Growth Director; D.J. Harshitha, Area Director and Vishal Nangal, President of Mysore Toastmasters, symbolising the spirit of knowledge, leadership and service.

Sergeant-at-Arms K.S. Sanjay outlined the meeting protocols. Masters of Ceremony L. Srihari and C.S. Rachana steered the audience through a well-curated programme.

The celebration featured addresses by the District Director and the Club Growth Director, followed by a musical interlude with a guitar performance by Arnav Yadrami. The Elevator Pitch Contest, moderated by Kavitha M. Prakash, DTM, showcased five dynamic speakers delivering concise and compelling presentations.

A special segment titled “Coffee with the Legacy” brought engaging conversations with senior Toastmasters, including Kavitha M. Prakash, DTM; Suma Yadrami, DTM; Gokul P. Menon, DTM and D.J. Harshitha, who shared insights from their leadership journeys.

The Debate Contest, moderated by N.G. Satish, witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of Mysore Toastmasters, VVCE Toastmasters and invited guests across two competitive rounds.

The Table Topics session, hosted by Suma Yadrami, DTM, and Deepak Laxman, provided five speakers an opportunity to demonstrate their impromptu speaking skills.

A major highlight was the keynote address by Murali Konareddy, Director of Learners PU College, who encouraged members to embrace lifelong learning and purposeful leadership.

Prize distribution

 At the prize distribution ceremony, special awards were presented for Best Dressed Male and Female attendees. The President distributed awards, certificates and mementos.

Toastmasters International is a non-profit educational organisation that builds confidence and teaches public speaking and leadership skills. Founded in 1924 by Ralph C. Smedley, the organisation provides a supportive environment for communication and leadership development through its Pathways learning experience.

Mysore Toastmasters meets every Saturday at 5 pm at Learners PU College, Vijayanagar, Mysuru. For details, contact G. Vishok, Vice-President Membership, on Mob: 97398-67073.