Sri Palli Srinivas Hegde: A Life of Innovation, Service, and Cultural Legacy

Palli Srinivas Hegde was a rare individual whose impact was felt across many domains agriculture, entrepreneurship, culture, and social service. He anticipated the future of farming, created vital transport and business infrastructure, revived and supported traditional art forms like Yakshagana, and quietly uplifted the lives of countless individuals through his philanthropic endeavors.

Palli Srinivas Hegde was born into a traditional yet forward-thinking family in Hiriadka, Udupi district. His father, Balkatta beedu Chandrashekhar Hegde, and mother, Palli Pajakodange Lakshani Hegde, laid the foundation for a life rooted in discipline, enterprise, and public service. In the 1960s, when India was still navigating the early decades of independence, Srinivas Hegde ventured into agriculture and business with a bold and visionary spirit. He understood early on that growth lay not just in tradition but also in innovation. Thus began a lifelong journey of blending Karnataka’s rich agricultural heritage with modern practices and entrepreneurship.

In 1966, Srinivas Hegde launched the West Coast bus service, one of the first City Bus services connecting Udupi and Manipal, then an emerging educational and medical hub. His initiative was not only a commercial success but also a vital link for students, patients, and professionals commuting daily. Three years later, in 1969, he established Rajaram Motors. His entrepreneurial journey continued with diverse fields like distribution of Industrial and Medical gases under the name West Coast Gas Agency and West Coast Liquor Agency in Udupi. These ventures demonstrated his entrepreneurial acumen and set a precedent for private sector-led infrastructure in a rural setting.

While commerce formed one part of his identity, agriculture remained his true passion. Srinivas Hegde’s innovative practices earned him the reputation of being one of Karnataka’s most visionary farmers. At his expansive ‘Khajane’ model farm located near Shivapura, he not only cultivated traditional crops such as betel nut, coconut, and pepper but also ventured into exotic agriculture a rare pursuit in his time. He was among the first in Karnataka to grow high-value crops like vanilla, mangosteen, rambutan, and clove. His forward-thinking approach inspired hundreds of farmers to diversify their crops and increase profitability. The Khajane farm became a living laboratory—visited by agricultural scholars, rural development officials, and fellow farmers alike. Recognizing his leadership, Srinivas Hegde was appointed Trustee of the Vanilla Development Organization, and served as Treasurer of the Syndicate Agricultural & Rural Development Foundation, contributing to policy and educational initiatives in rural development.

Srinivas Hegde was not just a man of the soil and the marketplace he was also a devoted patron of Karnataka’s performing arts, especially Yakshagana, the region's traditional dance-drama form. He became the head of the Saligrama Yakshagana troupe, one of the most respected ensembles in the coastal belt. Over 17 years of stewardship, he guided the troupe to perform nearly 250 shows every year across the state and country during the tirugata (touring season). His leadership ensured the troupe’s artistic vibrancy even during difficult times, including the tragic loss of some lead performers. Through his efforts, the Saligrama troupe not only survived but thrived, preserving the essence of Yakshagana while adapting to changing times and audiences.

Beyond business and art, Palli Srinivas Hegde was a quiet force in community development. His philanthropic vision was deeply integrated with local needs and cultural values. Under his leadership he Renovated ancient temples at Someshwara and Thingale and garodis of Bommarbettu, Anjar and Paddam, preserving the region's spiritual heritage. Improved school infrastructure, helping rural children gain better access to education. Supported marriage expenses for underprivileged families, recognizing social customs' burdens. Provided medical aid to individuals unable to afford treatment, often discreetly and without expectation of

In 2002, Srinivas Hegde was bestowed with the Best Agriculturist Award, presented by T. N. Seshan, former Chief Election Commissioner of India. Received Udupi District Rajyotsava Award. These awards recognized not only his innovative methods but also his mentorship to fellow farmers. He passed away on October 26, 2007, at the age of 72, leaving behind a rich legacy of productivity, cultural preservation, and service. He is survived by his sons, Nataraj and Rajaram, a daughter, and a wide network of family, colleagues, and beneficiaries who continue to uphold his values and work. His life is a testament to the power of vision rooted in values—a compelling blend of innovation, compassion, and cultural pride. Even today, his name remains synonymous with leadership and legacy in coastal Karnataka.