Welcome to Sandesha Foundation for Culture and Education®️

Rooted in Indian Culture | Enriching Hearts and Minds | Forming the Whole Person

 

Who We Are

Founded in 1989 and inaugurated in 1991 by His Excellency Khurshid Alam Khan, then Governor of Karnataka, Sandesha Foundation for Culture and Education®️ is a premier institution based in Mangaluru. Established under the patronage of the Karnataka Regional Catholic Bishops’ Council (KRCBC), Sandesha was envisioned as a vibrant centre for cultural expression, value-based education, and artistic formation.

 

A Centre of Excellence in Arts, Values, and Communication

For over three decades, Sandesha has been a beacon for cultural enrichment and educational innovation in Karnataka. Our programs blend traditional Indian art forms with modern communication tools to shape well-rounded individuals. We offer professional training in:

  • Bharatanatyam, Yakshagana, and Classical Indian Music
  • Western Music (Instrumental and Vocal)
  • Drawing, Painting, and Visual Arts
  • Theatre Arts and Cultural Studies
  • Public Speaking and Media Literacy
  • Spiritual Formation and Value Education

Our regular activities include annual camps, seminars, workshops, and performances that attract students, educators, and cultural enthusiasts from across India.

 

Our Vision

Sandesha was born from a deep desire to nurture Indian cultural roots while promoting communal harmony, spiritual growth, and creative expression. We aim to serve as a bridge between traditional values and modern education, particularly for young people, by highlighting the power of culture and communication in building a more humane and just society.

 

Our Key Programmes & Initiatives

  • Certified Courses in dance, music, theatre, and fine arts
  • Value Education Modules for schools and colleges
  • Summer Camps for children and youth
  • Sandesha Awards: Celebrating excellence in arts, media, and literature
  • Media and Leadership Workshops on ethics, communication, and creative thinking
  • Cultural Events and Productions that showcase regional and national heritage

 

Partnerships & Collaborations

Sandesha actively collaborates with educational institutions, dioceses, cultural academies, and NGOs to advance its mission. Notably, we have a Memorandum of Understanding with Dr. Gangubhai Hanagal Music and Performing Arts University. Sandesha is widely recognized for its contributions to social communications, interfaith dialogue, and community empowerment.

 

The Sandesha Awards

Established in 1995, the Sandesha Awards honour outstanding individuals and institutions in the fields of:

  • Kannada, Konkani, Tulu, and English Literature
  • Music and Performing Arts
  • Journalism and Education
  • Social Service and Community Leadership

These awards celebrate excellence, inclusivity, and creativity, reinforcing our commitment to cultural harmony and human dignity.

 

Leadership

Sandesha is guided by a committed Board of Trustees:

  • Bishop Henry D’Souza – Chairman
  • Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha – Vice Chairman
  • Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo – Trustee

The Foundation is currently led by Dr. Fr. Sudeep Paul, MSFS, Director and Principal, supported by a dynamic team of educators and cultural leaders.

 

Our Impact

Over the years, Sandesha has:

  • Empowered 20,000+ students through arts and education
  • Trained thousands of teachers and youth leaders
  • Fostered interreligious dialogue and cultural understanding
  • Received accolades and recognition across Karnataka and beyond

We remain committed to shaping minds, nurturing values, and preserving the rich tapestry of India’s cultural legacy.

 

📍 Contact Us

Sandesha Foundation for Culture & Education®️

Premnagar, Bajjodi, Kulshekar Post

Mangaluru – 575005, Karnataka

📞 +91 78994 39016

📧 sandeshafoundation@gmail.com / directorsandesha@gmail.com

🌐 www.sandeshafoundation.in

“To educate in culture is to humanize society. To form through values is to build a just future.”