Driven by Passion. Meet Our Founders

A Team Dedicated to Empower & Improve Education in the Rural Karnataka

Founding Members

M.L. Varchusvin S.S. Raje Urs

Sri. M.L. Varchus Vin S.S. Raje Urs, the current Mathadhipathi of Manteswamy Matha – Malavalli, Adi-Honnayakanahalli, and Sri. Kappadi Kshetra, assumed leadership at a young age following the loss of his father. Born to Maharajakumari Smt. Meenakshi Devi and Rajasevadhurina Sardar M.R. Lakshmikanth Raje Urs, he was anointed as Mathadhipathi at the age of 14. He obtained degrees in Arts and Law from National College and K.L.E. Society’s Law College, respectively. As a student, he garnered acclaim for his skills in mooting and public speaking before transitioning to focus on his role at the Matha.

Under his stewardship, the Jatra (Religious Event) at Sri. Kappadi Kshetra, which attracts over 300,000 participants biennially, has seen significant reforms. His innovative approaches earned him the title 'Abhinava Rachappaji' from the Neelagaara followers. Sri. Varchus has worked diligently to preserve and enhance the Matha’s traditions, actively supporting scholars and sponsoring numerous initiatives connected with the parampare. Sri. Varchus is deeply involved in philanthropy. He orchestrated aid to tribal communities, supported farmers, folk artists through various initiatives. His commitment to rural education is evident in the Paranjyothi Foundation's efforts, which have revitalized two government schools in Mandya District, significantly increasing student enrolment.

In addition to his Matha responsibilities, Sri. Varchus serves on several boards, including SJUET, Sri. Gunamba Trust, and MJWF. His personal interests include wildlife photography and history. Supported by his wife, Sushma Gubbi Vani, and their children, he continues to balance his leadership role with his philanthropic and personal pursuits.

Sushma Gubbi Vani

A trained classical dancer, artistic and fitness enthusiast, is also an avid trekker. She graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from Mount Carmel College in 2002 and after 20 years went back to physical college to earn a Diploma in Fashion Design from Lisaa School of Design, in 2023. Currently, she is a partner at Sabhyaa Home Linen and Apparels LLP.

At Sabhyaa, she is dedicated to supporting Indian artisans and weavers, passionately working to preserve and promote traditional Indian art and design. Her collaboration with silk weavers aims to revive the handloom silk weaving community, ensuring their craft thrives in the modern market.

Additionally she serves as a trustee for the Paranjyothi Foundation and holds the position of Head of School at Namma Halli Shaale. Believing that education is a cornerstone of progress, she is committed to creating educational opportunities that empower the next generation specifically in rural India. Her vision is to foster a progressive India through a blend of cultural heritage and innovative learning.

Chhavi Ticku, Principal

With an experience of over two decades, Ms Chhavi is an Applied Arts graduate from the prestigious institute of ‘Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath’ college of fine arts, Bangalore.

After an initial stint with a few advertising agencies on the creative side of the business, Ms Chhavi began her teaching career with Stepping Stones International a preschool, and later joined Neev early years. Having accomplished a satisfying career of teaching the young minds for over two decades, and her eternal love for children she decided to give back to the society by imparting her acquired knowledge to the needy and the under privileged. Ms Chhavi volunteered to join hands with “The Village School” in 2019 with an aim of enhancing the quality of education at grass root level.

In order to make the curriculum more relevant and enable an easy knowledge transfer, she single handedly curated a distinct curriculum for The Village School to align with the ground realities while maintaining the core and keeping the essence of the lessons intact.

As an artist at heart Ms Chhavi believes Education increases creativity and imagination of a child and is a powerful tool to break free from generational poverty.