Milestones

A chronicle of transformation

Key moments in the journey of service, leadership, and social impact.

1948

The Beginning

Born into the Heggade family, the traditional trustees of Dharmasthala- shaped by his father Shri Ratnavarma Heggade's dream of a modern, inclusive Dharmasthala.

1968

Investiture

Became the 21st Dharmadhikari at the age of 20, continuing a revered lineage of service.

1982

Bahubali Statue

Oversaw the installation of the monolithic Bahubali statue, a major spiritual and cultural landmark.The statue is approximately 39 feet (12 meters) tall.

1991

SKDRDP Expansion

Founded the Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project, which grew into one of India's largest microfinance and rural empowerment institutions.

2015

National Honour

Awarded the Padma Vibhushan by the President of India, in recognition of five decades of extraordinary contribution to society, culture, education, and spiritual leadership.

Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade

Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade

Dharmadhikari of Dharmasthala, social reformer, education patron, and public servant.

Dharmadhikari
Philanthropist
Rural Reformer
Padma Vibhushan
“

Service to humanity is service to the divine. When you uplift the lives of the needy, you are fulfilling the highest purpose of life.