Dr D Veerendra Heggade is the visionary behind the journey that has now reached Kshemavana. A renowned philanthropist, he is the hereditary administrator or Dharmadhikari of the Dharmasthala Temple. He, along with his predecessors, have played inspiring roles in administrative, political, legal, religious and developmental movements in the history of Dharmasthala.
Dr Heggade succeeded his father’s position at a young age of 20. But he set high standards of functioning, evolving in his wisdom over the years. In 2015, he was awarded the prestigious Padma Vibhushana Award by the Central Government of India, in recognition of his accomplishments. He has pioneered the SDM group of institutions, setting a fine example of how education is to be imparted.
He has always been socially committed, often serving for the welfare of the community. His philanthropist side is complimented by the grounded life he lives on a personal front. He feeds the cattle in the gow-shaale, he tastes the food that is served to thousands of devotees and he is always informed about the collection of works in the Oriental library, to name a few. His attention to detail, despite his busy life, makes him a great asset to the beautiful town and its cultural preservation.
