Mysore/Mysuru: Krishnaraja MLA T. S. Srivatsa stated that a century ago, Rajaguru of the Mysore Province Magge Venkatakrishnaiah (Thathaiah), advocated compulsory education.

He made these remarks while paying tributes to Thathaiah at the park named after this visionary figure, opposite City Bus Stand on New Sayyaji Rao Road. The occasion marked the 179th birth anniversary celebrations, organised by the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC).

Srivatsa continued, “When the entire country celebrates Teachers’ Day, we should remember Thathaiah’s vision, which emphasised ‘education for all’ in the then Mysore Province. Thathaiah’s contributions to society are immeasurable, as he consistently worked to uplift society through his involvement in various fields, including education and journalism.”

Mahatma Gandhi, who recognised Thathaiah’s contributions, referred to him as ‘Vruddha Pitamaha.’ Thathaiah, a teacher himself, served as a guiding light by establishing Anathalaya opposite Subbarayana Kere and donating Balabodhini School to society. Many individuals who received shelter and education in these institutions have gone on to achieve top positions in the world, he said.

Mayor Shivakumar said that Thathaiah even provided guidance to Dewan Sir M. Visvesvaraya. A century ago, Thathaiah worked tirelessly for the development of education, cooperation, healthcare, journalism, industries and various other fields.

He encouraged the esta-blishment of industries, enabling many people to make a livelihood by following his guidance. It is essential to introduce the services, achievements, and principles of Thathaiah to the younger generation, instilling a mindset of service among the, he opined.

Sundareshan, President of Thathaiah Anathalaya Alumni Association, urged the MCC to construct a reading room at Thathaiah Park and provide books for college students.

Youth leader Ajay Shastry called for joint celebrations of Thathaiah’s birth anniversary by the District Administration and MCC at Rangacharlu Memorial Town Hall starting next year. He also proposed the establishment of the ‘Thathaiah Award’ to honour achievers.

Among those present at the event were former Chairman of Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) H.V. Rajeev, Corporator Pramila Bharath, President of the District BJP Backward Classes Wing Jogi Manju and various other leaders, including Sachin, Charan, Vigneshwara Bhat, Sudarshan, Srinivasan, Lakshmi, Papanna, Gopalkrishna, Vijay, Sachin, Praveen, Vinod, Sukanya and Chandrakala.