Mysuru, November 3, 2023: Dr. N.R. Chandregowda, Associate Professor at Karnataka State Open University, Mysuru, delivered a poignant address at the 68th Kannada Rajyotsava program, underscoring the vital role of Kannada as not just a mother tongue, but as the language that resides in the heart of its speakers.
Dr. Chandregowda emphasized the urgency of protecting native languages, asserting that the erosion of a language equates to the erosion of its cultural heritage. He stated, “Kannada is not just our mother tongue, but it is the language of our heart. The richness and identity of Kannada has a long heritage.”
The ceremony, held at JSS College of Arts, Commerce and Science on Ooty Road, Mysuru, on November 1, 2023, saw Dr. Chandregowda as the esteemed chief guest. He delved into Karnataka’s illustrious history, spanning over two millennia, marked by challenges arising from foreign incursions and the influence of external languages. Dr. Chandregowda paid tribute to the collective efforts of visionaries such as Aluru Venkatarayaru, B.M. Srikantaiah, G.P. Rajaratnam, and Kuvempu, whose endeavors led to the formation of Karnataka State, and whose legacy is witnessed in the cultural pride of the state today.
Prof. B.V. Sambashivaiah presided over the event, delivering a presidential address. Commemorating the 50th anniversary of Karnataka’s rechristening from Mysore, he announced a year-long series of programs under the theme ‘Hesarayitu Karnataka, Usiraagali Kannada,’ aimed at celebrating Kannada language, literature, and culture. Prof. Sambashivaiah urged all Kannadigas to familiarize themselves with the history of Karnataka’s unification and acknowledged the pivotal contributions of various literary and linguistic luminaries, as well as organizations like Vidyavardhaka Sangha of Dharwad and Kannada Sahitya Parishat.
The ceremony featured floral tributes to the portrait of goddess Bhuvaneshwari, followed by musical performances by students. Faculty, staff, and students actively participated in the program, demonstrating their commitment to preserving Karnataka’s linguistic and cultural heritage.
The event commenced with an invocation by Kum. Kusumabai, a 3rd B.Sc. student, and was followed by a warm welcome by Dr. S. Pratibha, Principal of JSS College. Sri S. Somashekar, Principal of PU College, extended gratitude, and Dr. B.S. Sudeep skillfully orchestrated the proceedings.