Udupi MGM College @75: Alumni from first batch reflects on days at campus

Udupi: “It’s common for teachers to impart knowledge, but what set our college apart was its founder, TMA Pai, who visited every Friday to teach us life skills. His guidance became a cornerstone of our values,” said Kokkarne Rajiv Shetty, a retired education officer and a member of MGM College’s first graduating batch.

As MGM College celebrates its 75th anniversary (Nov 29 – Dec 1), Rajiv Shetty, a resident of Kundapura’s Asodu, fondly reminisced about his college days in an interview with Udayavani.

Back in 1949, options for higher education were limited, Shetty recalled. Though friends planned to join St. Aloysius College, his father insisted he join the newly established MGM College, founded by illustrious TMA Pai in Udupi. The first-year classes began in the then-town hall building, with 92 students, of whom 90 completed their degrees as part of the first batch. Over time, the college grew step by step into its current campus.

Personal Interactions with TMA Pai

“TMA Pai’s Friday visits to teach life skills were unique. I still cherish the memory of delivering a speech in English before him during an NCC event in Kochi, Kerala. When I revealed I was an MGM College alumnus, he proudly patted my back—a moment I’ll never forget,” Shetty said.

Sports and Student Life

Recalling the early years, Shetty shared how the students relied on Ajjarkad ground for sports during PT periods, playing football and cricket. “With no proper transport, commuting between home and college was an adventure in itself,” he added.

Notable First Batch Alumni

Several prominent figures emerged from MGM College’s first batch. The batch included P.B. Acharya, later Governor of Nagaland, and T. Mohandas Pai, son of TMA Pai, who stood out for his humility despite being the founder’s son. Others, like Ambalpadi Shreesha Ballal, went on to become notable faculty members of the college.

Prof. Sundar Rao, the first principal, left a lasting impression with his teachings and guidance, shaping students’ lives beyond academics.

The Amrit Mahotsav celebrations bring to life the legacy of MGM College, highlighting its transformative impact on education and its enduring values nurtured over 75 years.