Founders’ Day at CMR University has always carried a huge significance. It is a day that draws together the entire CMR family, students, faculty, leaders, alumni, and well-wishers to honour the values that shaped its journey. The celebrations that marked the occasion on 19th November 2025, stayed true to that purpose, unfolding across two campuses, offering many moments of recognition, reflection, and gratitude.
Inauguration of the New Academic Block
The 34th Founder’s day opened at 10:30 AM at the Lakeside Campus with the inauguration of the expansive New Academic Block that will house the School of Management (SOM), School of Economics & Commerce (SOEC), and School of Science and Computer Studies (SSCS).
Parents and guests who arrived to be part of the occasion, walked through the hallways, students gathered in small clusters, and faculty guided visitors warmly.
The ceremony recognised the achievements across the university. A total of 207 CMR Scholarships, 18 Sports Scholarships, 22 Leadership Awards, and 2,112 fee concessions worth a whopping ₹12.82 crore were presented to the beneficiaries.
Each award held its own quiet story of perseverance, skill, talent, and the belief that opportunity grows when it is shared.
The Minister for Transport and Muzrai, Dr. Ramalinga Reddy, Chairman of NPS Group, NAFL, and TISB, Dr. K.P. Gopala Krishna, and the renowned international kabaddi player and Arjuna Awardee, Dr. C. Honappa Gowda graced the event.
The Chairman, CMR Group & CMR University, Dr. K.C. Ramamurthy, IPS (Retd.), Secretary, CMR Jnanadhara Trust, Shri K.C. Jaganath Reddy, Chancellor, CMR University; Dr. Sabitha Ramamurthy, CEO, CMR Group & Pro Chancellor, CMR University; Jayadeep K.R. Reddy, Founder, Ekya Schools; Dr. Tristha Ramamurthy, and Vice Chancellor, CMR University, Dr. H.B. Raghavendra were also present.
AI cannot replace hardwork
Speaking to students and educators, Dr. K.P. Gopala Krishna delivered a reminder that cut across generations. He acknowledged the leadership of CMR University, noting how the institution has consistently expanded its vision and impact over the years. “As technology, especially AI reshapes education, students must learn to use it with discipline, not dependence. AI is powerful, but it cannot replace hard work or clear thinking. Those who understand the technology will lead; those who rely on shortcuts will struggle. This is a reminder for students, parents, and teachers alike.”
The timely, yet profound message left a lingering impression on the audience.
Honouring a Legacy
Founders’ Day at CMR Group is observed as a tribute to Sri Chikka Muniyappa Reddy (CMR), whose lifelong dedication and hard work laid the groundwork for the institutions that now educate thousands. His focus on access, inclusion, and community upliftment continues to guide the group’s mission.
As Dr. K.C. Ramamurthy reflected in his address, “Today, we honour not just a milestone, but the lasting vision of my father. Through these awards, we aim to identify and support talented and underprivileged students, helping them grow into future leaders.”
This year’s scholarships carried that vision forward: deliberate, purposeful, and anchored in service.
An Evening of Recognition, Reflection, Rhythm
By late afternoon, the celebrations moved to CMR National Public School in HRBR Layout. The event transitioned into a warmer, more intimate setting. Service Awards honoured years of dedication, PhD awardees were celebrated, and newlywed couples from across the CMR family received blessings amid loud, affectionate cheers.
The moment that held the room still was the CMR Seva Puraskara for Lifetime Achievement that was awarded to Shri H.S. Chandramauli, Senior Advocate, High Court of Karnataka. His acceptance carried the quiet dignity of someone who has spent a lifetime in service
And then, as the sun dipped, the vibe shifted
Popular Kannada music composer, singer and actor Dr. Gurukiran who has delivered popular hits like “Uppigintha Ruchi,” “Aa Devara Haadidu,” and “Taliban Alla Alla” entertained the audiences. Enthralled by the performance, the audiences ended their evening on a high, shaking their leg to the chartbusters.
What Yesterday Left Behind
Founders’ Day 2025 wasn’t just an event; it was a collage of moments. A parent capturing their child receiving a scholarship. Faculty catching up in quiet corners. Students watching the stage with the kind of anticipation that whispers, “Maybe one day, that could be me.”
Universities don’t grow on infrastructure alone. They grow through people, those who teach, those who learn, those who build, and those who carry the legacy forward. Yesterday was a reminder of what anchors CMR’s journey: intent, effort, and the shared belief that education can move lives.
CMR University steps into its next chapter with that understanding, steady, rooted, and curious as ever.
If you were there, thank you for adding your chapter to the day. If you couldn’t make it, don’t worry, the next year waits with its own stories, celebrations, and memories ready to be written.