Karnataka's Padma Shri Awardees: Transforming Personal Challenges into National Contributions
The Padma Shri awardees from Karnataka, announced on Republic Day 2026, showcase a diverse array of individuals whose quiet determination has led to significant social impact. From technologists advancing India's self-reliance to social workers and doctors changing lives, these honorees remind us that profound change often begins with humble beginnings.
Anke Gowda: From Bus Conductor to Library Visionary
Born into a farming family in Mandya district, Anke Gowda faced a lack of access to books during his college days while pursuing a Master's degree in Kannada literature. Working as a bus conductor, he resolved to ensure no one else endured such struggles. Over five decades, he built Pustaka Mane, a free-access library in Haralahalli village near Srirangapatna, now housing over 20 lakh books, including 5 lakh foreign titles. Through the Anke Gowda Jnana Pratishthana Foundation, he supports digitisation efforts and maintains free access for all, attracting students, civil service aspirants, and professionals alike.
S G Susheelamma: The Mother Teresa of Karnataka
In 1975, S G Susheelamma started by feeding three orphaned children, which evolved into the Sumangali Seva Ashrama. Today, her organisation provides shelter for over 100 children and 50 destitute women, addressing critical issues such as food security, education, and women empowerment. Operating shelter homes, Anganwadi centres, and rehabilitation programs, Susheelamma's work has become a beacon of hope across the state.
Dr Suresh Hanagavadi: Turning Personal Loss into Public Hope
After his maternal uncle succumbed to haemophilia in 1980, Dr Suresh Hanagavadi, himself a patient, founded the Karnataka Haemophilia Society (KHS). With an MD in Pathology, he established a platform for identifying, diagnosing, and rehabilitating patients with this rare bleeding disorder. Many former patients now work within the organisation, highlighting its transformative impact.
Shashi Vempati: Tech Pioneer and Youngest Prasar Bharati CEO
A graduate of IIT Bombay, Shashi Vempati spent over 16 years at Infosys, pioneering digital innovations. Appointed as the youngest CEO of Prasar Bharati in 2017, he has championed technology integration in daily life. His roles include chairing committees under the UGC and co-founding the DeepTech for Bharat foundation, emphasizing his commitment to advancing India's tech landscape.
T T Jagannathan: Revitalizing a Family Business Globally
An IIT Madras and Cornell University graduate, T T Jagannathan took over TTK Prestige during its struggles and transformed it into a global brand. By launching Manttra in the USA and acquiring UK-based Horwood homewares, he diversified into various kitchen solutions, making Prestige a symbol of safety. Jagannathan passed away in Bengaluru in October 2025 at age 77, leaving a legacy of entrepreneurial success.
Dr Prabhakar Kore: Expanding Education and Healthcare Access
Born in Belagavi, Dr Prabhakar Kore transformed the Karnataka Lingayat Education (KLE) Society from 38 institutions to 316, serving over 4 lakh students. He established the KLES Dr Prabhakar Kore Hospital and Medical Research Centre, one of Asia's largest healthcare facilities with over 2,400 beds, including a charity wing for the underprivileged. At 78, he has stepped down to allow new leadership to continue his mission.
Shubha Iyengar: Pioneering Indigenous Technology
Defying societal norms, Shubha Iyengar pursued a PhD and worked at the National Aerospace Laboratory (NAL) for over 40 years. She led the development of the DRISHTI transmissometer, a visibility-measuring system for airports, manufactured in India at one-third the cost of imports. Recognized as the national standard, it is installed in over 100 locations, exemplifying her nation-first philosophy and contributions to self-reliance.
These Padma Shri awardees from Karnataka demonstrate that impactful journeys often start with personal challenges, evolving into lifelong missions that earn India's highest civilian honours. Their stories inspire a vision of resilience and dedication to societal betterment.
