Mangalore University is deeply saddened to announce the passing of its respected Director of Physical Education, C.K. Kishore Kumar, who left us at the age of 60 in Mangaluru. He passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 5, 2025, after a recent health complication.
Mr. Kumar had been hospitalized for the past ten days due to health issues, and his demise occurred around 2 a.m. He is survived by his wife, Aruna, a respected advocate, and their two sons. A stream of friends, colleagues, and well-wishers gathered at his residence in Kadri Shivabagh, Mangaluru, between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to pay their last respects and offer heartfelt condolences to the grieving family.
Before his impactful tenure at Mangalore University, Mr. Kumar served as a dynamic physical and cultural instructor at MGM College, Udupi, from 1990 to 1991. Following this, he dedicated his expertise as a full-time guest faculty member at the University College of Physical Education in Bengaluru. His journey with Mangalore University began in July 1996, when he joined as the Assistant Director of Physical Education.
Throughout his distinguished career at the University, Mr. Kumar ascended through various pivotal roles. These included Deputy Director of Physical Education, Chairman and Coordinator of the Department of PG Studies and Research in Physical Education and Sports, and Coordinator of the M.Ed. Degree program, culminating in his position as Director of the Physical Education Department. Notably, he also briefly served as the acting Vice Chancellor and Registrar, demonstrating his versatile leadership and deep commitment to the institution.
Among his many enduring legacies, Mr. Kumar is particularly celebrated for spearheading the formulation of the University’s comprehensive sports policy. This forward-thinking policy was officially implemented during the South Zone Inter-University Kho-Kho championship for men, hosted in Mangaluru during the 2016-17 academic year. Under his visionary leadership as Director, the university’s men’s and women’s athletics teams achieved remarkable success, clinching the prestigious overall champion trophy at various inter-university competitions in the 2015-16 season.
His dedication extended beyond policy to practical improvements for the university community. He was a driving force behind the establishment of a state-of-the-art gym facility, furnished with modern fitness equipment, specifically designed for athletes residing in the university hostel. Furthermore, he initiated and oversaw the installation of new gym and recreation amenities for university employees, conveniently located in the Administrative Block and the Indoor Sports Complex, greatly enhancing the well-being of staff and students alike.