The special issue was unveiled by MLA Umanath A. Kotian.

Speaking on the occasion, K. Ramachandra Mijaru, Vice President, Special Initiatives, Udayavani, said the special edition highlights the life and achievements of Dr M. Mohan Alva, who has made significant contributions in the fields of healthcare, education, sports, literature and culture in coastal Karnataka. The issue contains articles written by 17 eminent personalities and authors on Dr Alva's personality and accomplishments. The special issue will be distributed free of cost along with Taranga weekly to readers in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Kasaragod, Mangaluru and other regions.

Addressing the gathering, Dr M. Mohan Alva reflected on his childhood and educational journey, stating that he had stayed in several hostels during his student days and had realised that life must undergo transformation as guided by divine will. He said he had learnt many lessons outside the classroom and, after establishing himself in life, rekindled his childhood interests and passions, including sports.

Dr Alva said that his medical profession taught him how to understand and interact with people. He emphasised that he always valued character over wealth and cultivated harmonious relationships with people from all walks of life. He noted that he had overcome various financial challenges without focusing solely on monetary gains and acknowledged the support he received from many people in reaching his current position. He also informed that efforts are underway to start a medical college this year.

Recalling the contributions of his father Anand Alva, mother Sundari Anand Alva, siblings and close friends, Dr Alva said that the guiding principle of his elders had always been to undertake activities that benefit society.

Land donation deed handed over

Smt. Vanajakshi K. Shripati Bhat of Puttige handed over a land donation deed for the open-air theatre site to Dr Mohan Alva through K. Shripati Bhat and conveyed her best wishes.

Among those present were Lakshmi Narayana Asranna, priest of Sri Kshetra Kateel; Harikrishna Punaroor, Dharmadarshi; industrialists K. Shripati Bhat, S.M. Mustafa, Shashidhar Shetty Baroda, Narayana P.M., A. Jeevandhar Kumar of Padyarabettu and Chandrahasa Shetty of Bantwal.

Also present were Dr Alva's sister Meenakshi Alva (USA) and her husband Jayakar Alva, his brother Balakrishna Alva, Vivek Alva and family, Dr Vinay Alva and family, and other members of the Alva family.

Satish Manjeshwar, Regional Manager of Udayavani Mangaluru Division, was also present. The programme was compered by Venugopal Shetty.