The much-awaited annual cultural festival “Manthan” commenced on 25 May 2026 with great enthusiasm and festive spirit at SDM College of Dental Sciences & Hospital. The week-long celebration began with a vibrant sacred procession from the mess area to the college entrance, creating an atmosphere of joy and excitement among students, faculty, and staff. The procession was followed by a Ganapati Pooja, invoking divine blessings for the successful conduct of the cultural festivities.

The formal inaugural ceremony was held in the college auditorium in the presence of distinguished dignitaries. The programme began with the traditional lighting of the lamp and invocation, marking the official inauguration of the cultural week.

The event was graced by Dr. Niranjan Kumar, Vice Chancellor, Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara University; Smt. Padmalatha Niranjan, Executive Director and Member, Board of Governors; Shri V. Jeevandhar Kumar, Pro Vice-Chancellor; Dr. Balaram D. Naik, Principal; Dr. Lekha K. P., Vice Principal; Chief Guest Vidhushi Smt. Sujatha Gurav, renowned classical vocalist; and Dr. Kirthi Honakeri, Cultural Secretary, along with faculty members and students.

The programme was smoothly compered by Aditya and Svara. Dr. Balaram D. Naik welcomed the dignitaries and the gathering. Addressing the audience, Chief Guest Vidhushi Smt. Sujatha Gurav appreciated the remarkable contributions of SDM University to education and society, while specially acknowledging the visionary leadership of Shri Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade. She also enthralled the audience with a soulful classical vocal performance, adding a unique cultural and spiritual essence to the inaugural ceremony.

As a mark of respect and appreciation, the dignitaries felicitated the Chief Guest. Dr. Kirthi Honakeri delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, faculty members, students, and everyone involved in organizing the event.

The inaugural programme concluded with an energetic cultural performance by the House Surgeons, setting an enthusiastic tone for the exciting events and competitions scheduled throughout the week-long Manthan 2026 celebrations.