MUMBAI: The iconic temple-like, multi-tiered building of the National Kannada Education Society (NKES) High School in Wadala, Mumbai, is preparing to bid farewell to generations of students who have cherished it as a symbol of educational excellence and Kannada heritage. The historically significant structure is set to undergo redevelopment to make way for a modern, state-of-the-art educational complex.
The inspiration behind the establishment of this educational institution came from the legendary Indian engineer and visionary Sir M. Visvesvaraya. During his visit to the Mysore Association several decades ago, he appreciated the association’s efforts to promote Kannada culture but encouraged its members to give greater importance to education. His valuable suggestion led to the establishment of the National Kannada Education Society in 1939. Subsequently, the institution commenced its operations on its present premises in 1957.
The construction of the school was made possible through the extraordinary efforts, dedication and philanthropy of R. D. Char, along with other pioneering personalities, including R. V. Murthy, Narayan Swamy, N. S. Gubbi, Vidwan Mahahuli Gopal Acharya and several others. The distinctive school building was designed by renowned architect Shri B. V. S. Iyengar.
In 1960, the ‘Visvesvaraya Wing’ was added to the institution as a mark of gratitude and respect to the visionary whose inspiration had played a significant role in the formation of the society.
Over the decades, the school’s distinctive terraced façade and temple-like architectural design have become an important landmark of Mumbai’s educational heritage. The building has witnessed the growth of countless students and generations of Kannada families, preserving within its walls memories of learning, friendship and childhood.
As the institution prepares for a new chapter through modern redevelopment, the school management has announced a special farewell visitation period to honour the historical and emotional significance of the building. Former students, teachers, faculty members and well-wishers are invited to visit the campus from November 2 to November 21, 2026.
During this special period, alumni batches are encouraged to revisit their beloved school, relive their cherished memories, reunite with former classmates and meet their retired teachers. The institution is also facilitating organised arrangements for individuals and groups to take photographs against the backdrop of the historic building before the redevelopment work begins.
“This building is a direct link to one of modern India’s greatest visionary minds. Knowing that Sir M. Visvesvaraya inspired the inception of the society makes these final photographs incredibly precious. We intend to capture every corner of our childhood before it goes,” remarked a member of the school’s heritage alumni circle.
To ensure the smooth coordination of visits, alumni coordinators are planning batch-wise schedules to accommodate former students. Alumni are requested to contact their respective batch representatives or the school administration to coordinate their visit timings during the November 2–21 period.
Former students may also send their visit details through WhatsApp to 9967546652 for advance notification and any further clarification.
The present office-bearers and trustees of the institution are:
President: Shri Parthasarathi Naik
Vice Presidents: Ms. Kamala K. and Dr. Ganapati Shankarling
*Honorary Secretaries:*Smt. Padmaja Banwasi and Shri Shashikant Joshi
Honorary Treasurer: Ms. Bhavani Chandrashekar
Trustees: Dr. B. R. Manjunath, Shri K. Manjunathaiah, Shri Ananth Banwasi and Shri B. S. Suresh.
As this historic structure prepares to make way for a new educational landmark, the farewell visit offers thousands of former students a rare opportunity to reconnect with their roots. More than just a school building, it represents generations of dreams, friendships, teachers’ guidance and unforgettable childhood experiences. The November 2–21 visit will therefore be an emotional occasion for alumni to preserve their treasured memories of an institution that has played a significant role in shaping their lives.
