Guru-Shishya Parampara has a revered place in Indian culture, students told

Retired principal Narendra Badaseshi has said that in Indian culture, the Guru (teacher) holds a place of utmost reverence. “The ancient tradition of the Guru-Shishya Parampara (teacher-student relationship) remains an inseparable and deeply respected aspect of our heritage,” he emphasised.

He was addressing students as the chief guest at an orientation and reorientation programme for freshers at the HKE Society’s Pre-University College for Girls in Kalaburagi on Sunday.

“Culture is what we are, civilization is what we have,” he said, urging students to embrace the values of Indian tradition while preparing for the challenges of modern life.

“Decisions should be made by choice, not by chance,” he noted, appealing to the youth to take responsibility for decisions that shape their futures.

Stressing the power of positive thinking, he said that challenges can be transformed into opportunities with the right mindset.

He encouraged students to read biographies of great individuals to draw inspiration and guidance. Quoting the popular phrase “Think globally, act locally”, he reminded the audience that meaningful change begins within one’s own community.

Retired professor Shanta Math, who also addressed the gathering as guest of honour, encouraged students to recognise and nurture the unique talents within themselves.

She cautioned against blind beliefs and stressed the need to develop rational and critical thinking. Warning about the dangers of excessive mobile phone use, she described books as “true friends for life” and advised students to cultivate the habit of reading.

“Respecting teachers leads to shaping a bright future,” she added, highlighting the vital role educators play in the lives of students.

The event was presided over by member of the HKE Scoiety’s management and coordinator of the college Naganna Ghanti.

On the occasion, students Soumya, Gayathri, Bhuvaneshwari and Lakshmi were felicitated for their exceptional academic performance in the 2025 II PU exams.

Also present on stage were Polytechnic College principal N.G. Patil and lecturers Ashok Patil, Preeti S., Shilpakala, Shubha, Savita Patil and Anasuya and college principal Usha Patil.