Philanthropist D Veerendra Heggade takes oath as Rajya Sabha MP

New Delhi [India], July 21: Renowned philanthropist and administrator of the Dharmasthala temple in Karnataka's Dakshina Kannada district, Dharmasthala Veerendra Heggade, took oath or affirmation of allegiance to the Constitution as Rajya Sabha MP. Heggade is one of the among four nominated Rajya Sabha members. Earlier this month Heggade was nominated to the Rajya Sabha. Also Read | Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann admitted to hospital after feeling unwell: Reports Heggade nomination filled the void the coastal region of Karnataka has had in the Upper House. After the demise of senior Congress leader and former Union minister Oscar Fernandes on September 13, 2021, the coastal region did not have any representation in the Rajya Sabha. Meanwhile, Heggade was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2015. Earlier also Prime Minister Narendra Modi had lauded Heggade on the former's visit to the temple and said, "Shri Veerendra Heggade Ji is at the forefront of outstanding community service. I have had the opportunity to pray at the Dharmasthala Temple and also witness the great work he is doing in health, education and culture. He will certainly enrich Parliamentary proceedings." Heggade is also credited with the revival of Yakshagana, maintaining a purely traditional approach. He is a patron of art and literature, and runs the Kannada monthly magazine Manjuvani'. He has also established 'Manjusha' - the museum that displays rare collections of antiques and contemporary rare and valuable artefacts. A collector of old cars, Heggade has attached his vintage car collection to the museum that is accessible to all. Also Read | Amritsar encounter: Moosewala's shooters Jagroop Roopa and Mannu Kusa killed; 3 cops injured His philanthropic activities were recognized by the State and the Central governments. He was awarded the Karnataka Ratna award - the highest civilian award in the state - in 2009. -PTC News