City of heroes

Strap: Honouring Bangalore’s unsung heroes, the Namma Bengaluru Awards spotlight changemakers shaping a cleaner, safer city

Blurb:

Governor Gehlot highlighted that city’s strength lies not only in its status as a hub of innovation and technology but also in the selfless service of its citizens

OB Bureau

In a glittering ceremony on August 25, Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot presented the prestigious Namma Bengaluru Awards to individuals whose dedication and vision have significantly contributed to the city’s growth and wellbeing.

The awards, which celebrate outstanding service across diverse fields, were marked by the Governor’s reflections on the legacy of Nadaprabhu Kempegowda, the founder of Bangalore, and the spirit of civic responsibility that continues to define the metropolis.

This year’s recipients included Dr. S G Sushilamma, honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for her decades-long service to women, children, and marginalized communities through Sumangali Seva Ashrama. H L Prabhakar, the Registration Assistant Inspector General (Computers), was named Government Official of the Year for his innovative work in public service.

The Rising Star of the Year accolade went to Malavika R Nair, recognised for her dynamic contributions to communications and social impact initiatives. Visionary entrepreneurs Vikas Brahmavar and Gowthaman Desingh, co-founders of Boson White Water, received the Social Entrepreneurs of the Year award for pioneering sustainable water solutions in the city. Meanwhile, Dr. P Sriram and Dr. Alexander Thomas were celebrated as Namma Bengalureans of the Year for their enduring impact on public health and community welfare.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Gehlot highlighted that city’s strength lies not only in its status as a hub of innovation and technology but also in the selfless service of its citizens. “The true strength of this metropolis lies in unsung heroes who protect the environment, spread education, serve the needy, and promote harmony. The idea of ‘My City, My Hero’ is deeply inspiring,” he said.

The Governor further highlighted that the awards symbolise the city’s collective resolve to remain clean, green, safe, and inclusive. He noted the challenges Bangalore faces today—rapid urbanisation, traffic congestion, water scarcity, waste management, and air pollution—and underlined that achievers and innovators play a crucial role in addressing these issues.

“The awards are proof that individual determination can bring about meaningful change. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners who continue to make our Bengaluru an inspiring city,” he said.

Through these honours, the Namma Bengaluru Awards not only celebrate personal excellence but also reaffirm the city’s ethos: that Bangalore thrives because of its people—visionaries, changemakers, and everyday heroes who make a difference.

 

BOX –

Know the awardees

Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr. S.G. Susheelamma

She is the Founder President of Sumangali Seva Ashrama, Bangalore, a voluntary organisation serving destitute women, orphaned children, and economically weaker communities. Co-founding the Ashrama in 1975 with Smt. M. Kanthamma with just Rs 15 and three children to care for, she built it on compassion and Gandhian principles. Today, under her leadership, the Ashrama supports around 100 children and 50 women, running schools, rehabilitation centres, women’s self-help groups, and health initiatives. Celebrated for her hands-on approach, Dr. Susheelamma has earned state and national recognition, inspiring holistic social welfare, empowerment, and dignity for marginalized communities.

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Rising Star of the Year

Malavika R Nair

Malavika, with over three years of experience in the social sector, currently manages communications at Manal Foundation. Passionate about visual storytelling, she focuses on enhancing outreach and engagement, helping the organisation connect more effectively with its audience. Beyond her professional work, Malavika enjoys building Lego creations, a hobby that reflects her creativity and attention to detail. She is also an advocate for animal welfare, dedicating time and energy to causes that promote the well-being of animals.

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Social Entrepreneurs of the Year

Vikas Brahmavar & Gowthaman Desingh

They’re a visionary duo behind city-based Boson White Water, a pioneering venture that transforms sewage treatment plant (STP) water into high-quality potable water. Vikas, who spent 2004–2008 in the UK software sector for an investment bank, returned to India with a steadfast passion for the water industry. In 2011, he teamed up with Gowthaman to co-found Boson White Water, aiming to revolutionise wastewater recycling across industries, IT parks, malls, and residential communities. Together, they have positioned the venture as a trailblazer, combining entrepreneurial spirit with innovative, sustainable solutions to India’s growing water challenges.