Bangalore, April 4, 2025 – In a remarkable stride towards enriching community service and extending the legacy of Lionism, the formation of the Lions Club of Bangalore Caliberts is now on the horizon. The new club, under the aegis of Lions District 317E, will be sponsored by the prestigious Lions Club of Bangalore Greater Koramangala, and is set to be inaugurated in the eminent presence of Hon’ble Shri D.V. Sadananda Gowda, former Chief Minister and Union Cabinet Minister.

At the helm of this noble endeavor stands Lion Dr. Vijaya Baskar Reddy, Past District Governor and a name synonymous with philanthropic excellence. Known across the district for his unparalleled dedication to humanitarian causes, Dr. Reddy has bestowed his blessings and formally greenlit the establishment of this new beacon of service, reaffirming his enduring commitment to the spirit of Lionism.

A Legacy of Service and Inspiration

A preliminary meeting held today marked the ceremonial prelude to the official launch of the club. Present at the occasion was PDG Dr. Vijaya Baskar Reddy, whose illustrious tenure as Governor saw Lions District 317E soar to historic heights. His association with Lions Club of Bangalore Greater Koramangala, the sponsoring “parent” club, further enriches the foundation upon which Caliberts is being built.

The new club’s permanent flagship project, titled “GO GREEN 2025 – Waste to Wealth: A Methodical Management Plan”, is a visionary initiative jointly conceptualized by Mrs. Rekha Yathindra and Mr. Yathindra, both pillars of the new club’s leadership. The project will be officially launched by Shri D.V. Sadananda Gowda, emphasizing a focused approach to environmental sustainability by addressing waste management at the grassroots level.

A Brotherhood of Visionaries

The Lions Club of Bangalore Caliberts brings together a rich tapestry of professionals from diverse fields — from education and healthcare to media, entrepreneurship, and music — all united by a shared zeal to serve. Leading the club as Charter President is Lion K.S. Sampath Chari, a veteran journalist and a lion stalwart with five decades of experience. His illustrious record includes extending over 20 clubs, inducting 400+ members, and his active participation in SightFirst and environmental initiatives across multiple Lions Districts in India.

Assisting him in the administration of the club are Mrs. Rekha Devi (Secretary – Admin) and Mr. Yathindra (Treasurer), both highly regarded for their meticulous planning and dedication to service excellence.

The executive body further includes:

• Dr. Abhinandan – Renowned educationist and Charter Vice President, whose foundation has been a beacon of educational and drug awareness initiatives.

• Dr. Srikanta Murthy – Esteemed academician and Vice President.

• Mrs. Saritha Sivakumar – Youth leader and social activist, also serving as Vice President.

• Mr. Sendhil – ITES entrepreneur and Secretary – Activities.

• Mr. John – Chairman of a reputed service trust and Joint Secretary.

• Mr. Abhay – Mumbai-based acclaimed music director, now Director – Events & Entertainment.

• Mrs. Rani John and Dr. Usha Rani – Directors of Projects with commendable backgrounds in education and social service.

• Mr. Harish – Pharmacist and newly appointed Lion Tamer, entrusted with managing the club’s physical assets.

Bridging Passion with Purpose

The Lions Club of Bangalore Caliberts seeks to be a lighthouse of transformation, drawing from the legacy of experienced lions and the energy of spirited newcomers. Among the driving inspirations is the story shared by Dr. Abhinandan, who recalled how PDG Dr. Vijaya Baskar Reddy had once purchased 1000 copies of his book, Crumpled Papers, during its launch by Hon’ble VP Rajasekharan, to raise awareness among children about drug abuse. It is this depth of commitment that the new club aspires to emulate.

Dr. Reddy’s enduring legacy includes land donations to Tirumala Devasthanam, mass anna danam initiatives, and an impactful term as District Governor. He is also the recipient of the Aryabhatta Award 2025, alongside Dr. Abhinandan, for his contributions to society and business through his venture, Kolhapuri Amma Packaging.

The Spirit of Lionism Lives On

The new club, with 20 vibrant and committed members, is envisioned as a dynamic platform for service that blends compassion with strategic execution. With the guiding philosophy of “We Serve,” the Lions Club of Bangalore Caliberts stands poised to set new standards in service, sustainability, and community leadership.

The entire fraternity awaits the grand launch of this stellar initiative, which not only symbolizes the expansion of Lionism but also ignites the flame of change for generations to come.