Former Supreme Court judge N. Santosh Hegde spoke at agri innovator Manjunath Sanu’s book release of an autobiography titled Namage Nave Maadari and its English translation Idolise Yourself in Hubballi on February 18.

Former Lokaykta of Karnataka and former Supreme Court judge N. Santosh Hegde has said that in order to bring about large-scale change, society should learn to honour honest individuals.

He was speaking at agri innovator Manjunath Sanu’s book release of an autobiography titled Namage Nave Maadari and its English translation Idolise Yourself in Hubballi on February 18, which coincided with the inauguration of Samarth Bharath Raita Seva Kendra.

Mr. Hegde observed that many present-day injustices are not just the fault of individuals but of society, which, he said, is being increasingly driven by wealth and power. While there is nothing wrong in seeking success, he stressed that it should be achieved within lawful limits. “If one breaks the law to gain wealth or power, he will always be in fear and hence, no peace. But if one earns lawfully, one can live in peace,” the former apex court judge said.

He added that contentment was important and warned against excessive greed. He also expressed concern that unlike in the past, schools are no longer giving adequate importance to moral education. Quoting an incident from the autobiography which mentions Mr. Sanu’s reluctance to pay a bribe and legal fight with the Commercial Tax department which he subsequently won, Mr. Hegde said neither giving a bribe nor taking one should be the principle followed by everyone.

Vijay Sankeshwar, chairman and managing director of VRL Logistics Ltd., recalled his struggle and entrepreneurial journey, saying that one should not go after fame. He added that one should be nice and follow the right path, and that will bring them fame automatically.

J.H. Kulkarni, former Vice-Chancellor of UAS Dharwad, praised Mr. Sanu, also his student, for the latter’s achievement.

Terming the day a significant milestone in his life, Mr. Sanu recalled his initial days of struggle. He urged youngsters to set clear goals. “Once you have a clear aim, half the work is done,” he said, adding that discipline and persistence help ordinary people achieve extraordinary results. He recalled developing a cost-effective Indian alternative to an imported agricultural product and spoke about his decision to work for farmers through soil testing and advisory services.

Narrator of the autobiography and senior journalist Arunkumar Habbu said he had encouraged Mr. Sanu to write the book as the latter’s life is an inspiration for the youth. Manjunath Revankar, president of Mangaluru Taluk Kannada Sahitya Parishat, Mr. Sanu’s daughter, GST Assistant Commissioner Ramya, and others were present.