Madikeri: 

Professor Padma Shekhar, who is originally from Torenur in Kodagu but now resides in Mysuru, was honoured with the prestigious Rajyotsava Award for her contributions in the field of education.

Before her retirement in 2019 as chancellor of Bengaluru Sanskrit University, she served in multiple roles at the University of Mysore, including as professor of Jainology and Prakrit department, director of the Centre for Women’s Studies, chairman of the department of christianity, and chief superintendent of the women’s hostel.