Bhaskara Parva: Generations of Journalism Students Reunite to Honour a Teacher Who Shaped Their Lives

Kalpa Media House | Ujire(Dakshina Kannada) |

SDM College, Ujire, in Belthangady taluk, resonated with emotion, gratitude and nostalgia on Saturday as journalism students from batches dating back to 1993 came together to bid a heartfelt farewell to their beloved teacher Bhaskara Hegde, Head of the Department of Journalism, who retired the same day.

The programme, titled Bhaskara Parva, stood as a tribute to his towering contribution to journalism education and became a rare reunion of alumni who returned to celebrate the mentor who guided them at a time when journalism education itself was still evolving.

SDM College was among the first institutions in Karnataka to introduce a journalism course nearly four decades ago. Former students recalled how Hegde’s commitment, discipline and passion for the profession shaped generations of media professionals. As part of the event, a documentary tracing his academic and professional journey was released, along with a souvenir commemorating his lifelong service to journalism education.
Hegde served the department for 33 years and was head of the department as well as a member of Boards of Studies and examination boards of several universities and autonomous colleges across the state.

He began his career as a journalist in Hubballi, where he worked for three years before joining SDM College in August 1993. “He always stressed practical learning over theory. At a time when formal journalism education was rare, he built the department from the ground up. What truly made him unique was his relationship with students—he continues to inspire them even decades later,” said Prof. Sathish Kumar Andinje, his former student and now a professor at Kuvempu University, Shivamogga.

Sahana M, secretary of the Karnataka Media Academy and a student of the 1994–97 batch, said Hegde was widely respected for his student-centric and practice-oriented teaching. “Bhaskara Parva was organised to celebrate him as an outstanding teacher. His humility, patience and genuine concern for students set him apart. Everyone gathered to express their gratitude and affection. He was a true guru, mentor and guide,” she said. Releasing the documentary, Shraddha Amith, CEO of Kshemavana and one of his students, recalled her college days and noted that Hegde taught invaluable life lessons along with academics, making him an exceptional teacher. On the occasion, a scholarship for journalism students was also announced.