-Prof.Peter Archibald FurtadoÂ
Barkur today stands in silence and gratitude as it bids farewell to one of its noblest sons, Muskibail Sudhakar Shetty, who breathed his last this morning. With his passing, Barkur has lost not merely a successful entrepreneur, but a visionary humanitarian whose life was deeply rooted in service, education, compassion and gratitude to his native soil.
Born in a humble agrarian family of Barkur, Sudhakar Shetty rose through hard work, discipline and determination to become a respected industrialist in Mumbai.Â
Yet, despite his success and global business reach, his heart always remained in Barkur. He believed true success finds meaning only when it uplifts society, especially the poor and rural youth.
His greatest legacy will continue to shine through the educational institutions he nurtured in loving memory of his mother, Smt. Rukmini Shedthi.Â
Our Barkur had High School before independence in 1946, the same was progressed as a Junior College with two years PU classes in three streams, Arts, Commerce and Science in 1971 and since then, eagerly looking for a Messiah to start a College... Wait was long however the  establishment and growth of Rukmini Shedthi Memorial National Government First Grade College from 1999 opened the doors of higher education to thousands of rural students, especially poor, downtrodden and women who otherwise would have struggled to pursue degrees.
His generous donations, personal supervision, and tireless involvement transformed the institution into a beacon of learning and opportunity.
Likewise, the restructuring and development of Century old Rukmini Shedthi Memorial National Higher Primary School since 1988, as a model School reflected his unwavering belief that education is the strongest foundation for social transformation. Generations of children from rural families continue to benefit from the seeds he sowed with foresight and affection.
Even amidst his vast business commitments, Sudhakar Shetty personally monitored the progress of educational projects in Barkur, ensuring quality infrastructure and long-term sustainability. He extended scholarships, encouraged deserving students, supported charitable causes and inspired many philanthropists to contribute towards rural development.
He was truly a “Dodda Manushya” in the finest sense — large not merely in stature or wealth, but in heart, humility and generosity.
Today, countless students, teachers, parents, well-wishers and Barkurians across the globe mourn this irreplaceable loss with tearful eyes and grateful hearts.
May the Almighty grant eternal rest, Sadgati to the departed soul of Sudhakar Shetty and strength to the bereaved family to bear this profound loss.
'Some people build houses, some build businesses, but rare souls build generations.'
Rest in peace, dear Sudhakar Anna.
Your legacy will continue to enlighten Barkur for generations to come.
On behalf of The Barkur Educational Society and admirers,
Peter Archibald Furtado, Admin coordinator of the National Group of Educational Institutions Barkur.