My Father Before Me: A Memoir /Inheriting My Father’s World

Introduction

It is both a privilege and a responsibility to present the life story of my father, late Prof. N. C. Parappa, a man who, to the outside world, was a physical educationist, coach, and administrator, but to me, was first and foremost a father, guide, and role model.

Growing up, I witnessed how he lived by the very principles he taught. His discipline was unwavering, his humility constant, and his faith in the power of education and sport unshakable. What stood out to me most was not just his achievements in wrestling, basketball, or administration, but the way he touched people’s lives with fairness, encouragement, and a deep respect for every student who came under his care.

As his son, I saw how his passion for physical education was never about personal glory but about building others, be it athletes, teachers, or institutions. His home was filled with students and colleagues seeking guidance, and he gave freely of his time and wisdom. To him, teaching was not a profession, it was a lifelong duty.

This biography is not only a record of his milestones but also a reflection of the values he stood for discipline, service, and integrity. My hope is that these pages will help future generations understand not only what he accomplished, but also the spirit in which he lived: that sport builds character before career, and that true success lies in shaping others.

For me, he will always remain not just a father, but a constant source of inspiration, whose legacy continues to guide my steps.

GaviRangappa S P.

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Professor Parappa at Devanga Union ground alongside his talented young jump shooters.

1.Early Life and Foundations

Prof. N. C. Parappa was a towering figure in physical education and sports administration, whose lifelong dedication transformed college sports and basketball in India.Revered for his discipline, vision, and warmth as a teacher and coach, he not only strengthened institutional sports programs but also inspired generations of students and educators to pursue excellence.

Born on 20th January 1927 in Bangalore City, Professor Parappa was the youngest of four children. His father, Yajamana Sappe Narasimhanna, a respected silk merchant, passed away when Parappa was only two years old.  His mother, Late S. Arasamma, raised the family with resilience, insisting that her children prioritize education over the family trade. Her farsightedness bore fruit: Professor Parappa’s elder brother, the late S. N. Parappa, completed his engineering at Bengaluru's School of Engineering now the prestigious University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering. As its lecturer, and Principal of SJP Polytechnic, K R Circle, Bengaluru later retired as Director of Technical Education Government of Karnataka.

Professor Parappa’s formative years balanced academics and sports. After vernacular schooling, he joined United Mission High School Bengaluru, and later completed Bcom at the University of Mysore. Yet, it was wrestling that defined his early journey. Training at Sri kodandarama Vyayama Shale Sanjeevappa Lane Cubbonpet Bengaluru,

he displayed natural talent, becoming All India Inter-University Wrestling Champion (bantamweight, Lucknow) and later competing against K. D. Jadhav, India’s first Olympic medalist in wrestling, at the 1949 Bangalore championships. Though he lost, the experience deepened his respect for sport as a pursuit of both physical excellence and moral discipline.

2.Professional Training and Global Exposure

In 1946 along with senior citizens of Cubbonpet, and his associates created Devanga Union Sports Club, K  G Road, Bengaluru. Today it is named after him as 'Devanga Ratna' Professor N C Parappa's Basketball Playground.

This group photos was taken on the occasion of formation of Devanga Union Sports Club in the 1946 at Bengaluru.

Determined to professionalize his passion, Professor Parappa enrolled at the YMCA College of Physical Education, Chennai, excelling as both wrestler and basketball player, while representing Madras University and State in wrestling.

After completing his bachelor’s degree in Physical Education at the YMCA College of Physical Education, Chennai, Professor Parappa briefly served as Senior Physical Culture Instructor at Bengaluru’s Intermediate College. Although the Intermediate College no longer exists, its campus is located on Nrupathunga Road, Bengaluru, between the University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering, and Government Science College.This area remains a significant academic hub in the city, with landmark institutions playing an important role in Bengaluru’s educational history.

In 1951, he married late S. V. Sarojamma, whose enduring support anchored his career. Recognition soon followed:

Professor Parappa was invited by Kerala's Malabar Special Police, to train and coach the officers in the art of wrestling. He was awarded the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship to pursue a Master’s degree in Health and Physical Education at the University of Oregon, United States of America.There, he was exposed to modern coaching techniques, fitness education, and sports administration, experiences that profoundly shaped his outlook.

Returning to India, he began as a lecturer at YMCA College of Physical Education, Chennai, coaching teams to landmark victories and establishing himself as a mentor known for both rigor and empathy.

When the Government of Karnataka created the Government College of Physical Education, at Bangalore it's campus was situated at Sri Kanteerava Stadium Bengaluru, he joined as its vice Principal and later became Principal of the college. When the college was transferred to Bengaluru University's jurisdiction as its University College of Physical Education, he was its Principal, HOD, and Dean of Education faculty. Just before his retirement he was appointed as Register of Bangalore University a first for a physical educationist.

In 1961, he was certified as a wrestling coach by the National Institute of Sports, Patiala, Punjab the predecessor of Sports Authority of India.

He was a sports administrator and a certified coach in wrestling, but he was well-known as a basketball coach for the Mysore State Basketball, men, women and boys teams.

3.Pioneer of sports administration, and Physical Education in India.

By the late 1950s, Professor Parappa returned to India, bringing with him international exposure and fresh vision. Basketball, then a developing sport in Karnataka, found in him one of its earliest promoters. His deep association with the Devanga Union Sports Club, Bengaluru, became central to this mission.

Here, he introduced structured training methods modeled after American professional coaching emphasizing fitness, tactical drills, and teamwork, revolutionizing local basketball standards. His association with late Dr. Edward Steitz, legendary American coach and “Father of Modern Basketball,” further inspired him to elevate Bengaluru basketball to global standards.

Professor Parappa holds the unique distinction of having served as the Organising Secretary of the 1963 Indian National Basketball Championship, held at the YMCA Grounds, Nrupatunga Road, Bengaluru. In the same tournament, he was also the coach for the Mysore State Men’s Basketball Team, which reached the finals but narrowly lost to the Services team a formidable side comprising players from the Indian Armed Forces. It is noteworthy that from the 1960s through the 1980s, the Services team consistently dominated the Indian national basketball scene. Renowned for their disciplined play, physical fitness, and tactical precision, they presented an almost insurmountable challenge for state-level teams. 

Despite their skill,teamwork, and, determination, the Karnataka State men's basketball team could never secure a victory against them in those decades. Professor Parappa’s dual role as both organiser and coach in such a prestigious national event highlights his exceptional leadership, organisational ability, and unwavering dedication to the growth of basketball in Karnataka and across India. His involvement not only elevated the standards of the game in the region but also inspired a generation of players and sports enthusiasts to pursue excellence in basketball.

During the 1960s, it was rare and challenging for basketball teams to participate in tournaments held outside state. However, in 1963, Professor Parappa led the Devanga Union Basketball Team to the All India Basketball Tournament in Kottayam, Kerala, where the team reached the finals a remarkable achievement at the time. This was the first instance of a sports club from Karnataka successfully competing beyond state borders, setting a pioneering example for inter-state participation in basketball.

This milestone not only elevated the reputation of the Devanga Union team but also showcased Professor Parappa’s vision and leadership in promoting basketball across regional boundaries, inspiring future generations of players and coaches in Karnataka.

Professor Parappa possessed a remarkable ability to transform ordinary individuals into outstanding athletes.

One such example was Mr. Muniswamy, who joined the Government College of Physical Education at Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru, as a marker a role responsible for marking the college playground for athletics and various games.

Standing an impressive 6 feet 3 inches tall, Muniswamy soon drew the attention of Professor Parappa, recognizing his physical potential and sporting instinct, Professor Parappa asked if he would be willing to learn basketball. Muniswamy readily agreed, and that marked the beginning of a remarkable sporting journey.

Under the mentorship of Professor Parappa, and support from Devanga Union Sports Club. Muniswamy rapidly developed into a talented basketball.

His dedication and skill soon earned him a place in the Devanga Union Club team, representing it in the First Division Basketball Tournaments conducted by The Mysore State Basketball Association.

Within just a few seasons, Muniswamy’s impressive performances led to his selection trials for the Mysore State team, and he was later chosen to represent India at the Asian Basketball Championship in Seoul, South Korea, in 1967. 

His rise from local tournaments to the international stage reflected both his hard work and Professor Parappa’s visionary coaching. Soon afterward, Muniswamy was recruited by the Indian Railways to play for its basketball team, participating in the annual Indian National Basketball Championship tournaments. His exceptional performances there further enhanced his reputation as an outstanding player.  After more than a decade of representing the country and Indian Railways with distinction, Muniswamy was appointed Sports Welfare Officer at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Perambur, Chennai. Muniswamy’s journey from a humble playground marker to an international basketball player representing the Devanga Union Sports Club, Mysore State, Indian Railways, and ultimately India stands as a shining tribute to the transformative mentorship of Professor Parappa.

Professor Parappa was among the very few pioneering physical educationists from South India to be nominated by the Government of India to serve as a member of the Management Committee of the National Institute of Sports (NIS), Patiala, Punjab, during the 1970s. This rare distinction was in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the promotion of physical education, sports coaching, and institutional sports development in the country. His tenure at NIS reflected his commitment to integrating scientific training methods and fostering national-level sports excellence.

Simultaneously, as teacher and administrator, he redefined college-level sports education. He insisted that physical education was not an extracurricular diversion but an integral part of holistic learning. He upgraded curricula, standardized exams, and professionalized physical education courses across India. His leadership in tournaments, camps, and selection processes ensured transparency, merit, and fairness values that defined his career.

4.Administrator, Mentor, and Visionary

Many people are unaware of Professor Parappa’s remarkable contributions to social welfare and community upliftment.The Lions Club is a world-renowned institution dedicated to charity and humanitarian service. When Lions Club chapters began to take root in India, the Lions Club of Bangalore (Host) became the parent organization for several clubs across the then Mysore State.In the late 1950s, Professor Parappa was invited to serve as a Member of the Lions Club of Bangalore (Host). Recognizing his leadership and dedication to service, he was soon appointed as the Chairman of the Boys’ and Girls’ Welfare Subcommittee, where he initiated numerous programs for youth development. One of his noteworthy initiatives was the organization of state level inter-school basketball tournaments in Bengaluru, in collaboration with the Devanga Union Sports Club. These tournaments, held under the auspices of the Lions Club of Bangalore (Host), became some of the city’s most prestigious sporting events during the 1960s and 1980s. For the term 1969–70, Professor Parappa was elected as the President of the Lions Club of Bangalore (Host). His tenure was marked by vibrant community outreach activities, youth training programs, and the strengthening of ties between civic organizations and educational institutions efforts that left a lasting impact on Bengaluru’s social and cultural life.

Through the 1970s and beyond, Professor Parappa’s role expanded into sports administration and educational leadership. As a respected voice in universities and state forums, he championed reforms giving physical education equal footing with academics. He streamlined sports governance, built coaching networks, and inspired young athletes to balance study with discipline.

His colleagues hailed him as a “teacher of teachers.” Many of India’s physical educationists, coaches, and administrators were shaped by his guidance. He combined theory with practice, strictness with compassion, and constantly reinforced values of punctuality, teamwork, and humility.

Nationally, his expertise was sought at conferences, policy forums, and workshops. His contributions to curriculum design, coaching frameworks, and ethical sports administration influenced not only Karnataka but also the broader Indian sports ecosystem.

In 1980, Professor Parappa recognized the need to promote women's participation in games at the Devanga Union Sports Club. He identified promising talent and, for the first time, formed a women’s basketball team. The team went on to participate in the All India Women’s Basketball Tournament held at Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu, where they secured the third position. Over the years, the women’s basketball team continued to grow steadily, attracting new talent and emerging as one of the most formidable teams in the state basketball circuit.

5.Later Years and Enduring Legacy

Even after retirement, Prof. Parappa remained closely involved with institutions like the Devanga Union Sports Club, guiding their programs and mentoring youth. Known as a “teacher of generations,” he stayed connected with students, offering advice and encouragement. Many of his protégés went on to become leaders in education and sport.

He lived simply, embodying the values he preached discipline, honesty, humility, and service. His belief that “sport builds character before career” remained constant.

Professor N C Parappa was awarded numerous awards in the course of his lifetime, but four must be mentioned:

1.In 1980 he was awarded the prestigious Buck Award given by YMCA College of Physical Education Chennai for outstanding achievements in the field of physical education in the country.

2.In 2001 Government of Karnataka awarded the professor with the State's second highest award the Kannada Rajyotsava award for his achievements in Education.

3.For his contributions in popularising basketball among school children in Bangalore, and improving the performances of Mysore State Basketball Teams at Indian National basketball championships.The trophy that is given annually to the winning basketball team by Karnataka State Basketball Association's senior division basketball tournament is named after him.

4.For his services for the Devanga community, he was given the title of 'Devanga Ratna' in 1993 by Jagadguru Sri Sri Sri Dayanand Puri Maha Swamyji of Sri Gayatri petta, Hampi, Karnataka.

6.Professor Parappa’s life remains an inspiring yet unfulfilled story

He was on the verge of returning to India after completing his Master’s degree in Health and Physical Education. Hoping to help him secure employment at HMT in Bengaluru, his brother wrote a recommendation letter to the company. Unfortunately, the opportunity did not materialize, and Professor Parappa did not get the job.What seemed like a missed chance for HMT turned out to be a significant gain for the field of sports and physical education in India.

Professor Parappa was highly impressed by East Germany's state-run sports schools, residential institutions where promising young athletes received specialized training and coaching under a government-sponsored system designed to produce world-class competitors. This pyramid model identified talented athletes from a young age, offered them superior training facilities, expert guidance, and rigorous performance monitoring, and ensured a structured pathway toward elite competition. 

In several forums, Professor Parappa strongly advocated for the establishment of similar sports schools in India, arguing that such institutions could nurture athletic talent systematically and raise the country’s global sporting profile. Unfortunately, successive governments of that period held a different perspective on sports management, often viewing it more as recreational or regional activity rather than a structured, long-term national development priority. This difference in approach delayed the creation of specialized residential sports academies, leaving sports management dependent on fragmented training setups and less coordinated talent identification programs.

The professor’s recognition by the government was rather muted. On numerous occasions, his name was nominated for the Padma Shri, but each time he missed receiving the honor. Just a few months before his passing, he was granted the Kannada Rajyotsava State Award, following intensive persuasion by his colleagues, students, and well-wishers. This belated acknowledgment was a small but significant tribute to his lifelong dedication and contributions.

He passed away on 09-09-2002 Professor Parappa left behind more than personal achievements. He left behind a living ecosystem of students, athletes, and administrators carrying forward his vision. His legacy stands today as the foundation of sports culture and modern physical education India.

Professor Parappa’s story is one of discipline, integrity, and service. From the wrestling mat to basketball courts, from classrooms to sports policy boards, his influence reshaped India's sporting and educational landscape. More than medals and trophies, his greatest achievement was shaping generations, instilling in them the conviction that sport is not just about winning, but about building character, community, and nation.

"My father’s achievements are my inheritance of honor.”

Prof. N. C. Parappa remains, above all, a Teacher of Generations.

About the Author

GaviRangappa S. P. is a dedicated health and wellness coach and content writer with a graduate degree from the University of Bengaluru.

Passionate about holistic well-being and social empowerment, he combines his knowledge of fitness, health, and traditional practices to promote balanced living.

He is the founder of The Weft and Warp Society, an initiative devoted to supporting marginalized weaver communities by addressing their social, cultural, and economic challenges. Through this platform, he strives to empower traditional weaving families, promote sustainable livelihoods, and preserve India’s rich textile heritage for future generations.

Beyond his community work, GaviRangappa actively advocates for grassroots health awareness and mental well-being, sharing practical wellness insights through his writing, workshops, and local outreach programs. His work reflects a deep belief that true wellness arises from harmony between body, mind, and community.