He is known for starting the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Institution (SLN Institution) for free education to help poor students in 1906, and he also built a public function hall, popularly called "Doddanna Hall", which used to host cultural and public activities in 1905, and later converted into Paramount Talkies.

[1][2][3] Doddanna Setty was given the title "Janopakari" (Generous) by the Maharaja of Mysore Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, for his social services.

[1] After losing every family member in his life, Doddanna Setty decided to use his wealth to help people and provide free food, shelter and education for poor children.

Doddanna Setty decided to establish Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Dharmapathashale (later SLN Charities) to educate children from all backgrounds.

In 1909, the city municipality demolished the wall by mistake and so the Maharaja gave the land behind the Kote Anjaneyaswamy Temple.

[3][1][6] Doddanna Setty wanted a structure large enough to serve the purpose of a choultry, school, theater and assembly hall.

Until Sir K. P. Puttanna Chetty built the Town Hall in 1935, it was the city's only large indoor venue for holding public events.

With growing popularity and diversity in films screened, the management changed the name of Doddanna Hall to "Paramount Theatre".