Bhatkal: Darshan Mahabaleshwar Naik, a resident of Jali in Bhatkal, has secured the first place in a painting competition held under the theme “Viksit Bharat Ke Rang” and has been selected to represent Karnataka at the national-level contest.

The competition, which featured various categories of painting and art, was organized across 75 centers in different parts of the country between September 17 and October 2. In Karnataka, the events were held in Bengaluru and Mangaluru.

Darshan, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Visual Arts (BVA) degree in Bengaluru, participated in the student category and clinched the top prize, winning a cash award of ₹25,000.

It is learnt that in 2024, Darshan had also taken part in a graffiti and wall-painting competition organized on the occasion of National Voters’ Day, where he won first prize at the state level.

Institutions and community leaders from across Bhatkal Taluk have extended their heartfelt congratulations to Darshan Naik for his outstanding achievement in the field of painting.