The ‘Gadinaadu Samskrutika Utsava’ (Border Area Cultural Mela) held on June 21, 2023, at Talavadi in Chamarajanagara was inaugurated in the divine presence of His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji. Smt. Dakshayini Kumar, Sri Prakash Mattihalli, Sri Vishwanath P. Hiremath, Dr. C. Somashekar, Sri B.S. Puttaraju, Sri Mallikarjunswamy, Smt. Ratnamma Kalanayaka, Smt. M. Bhagirathi, Sri Kalanayaka and others are seen in the picture.
Chamarajanagara, June 22, 2023: Dr. C. Somashekar, former Chairman of the Karnataka Border Area Development Authority, delivered an impressive address at the Border Area Cultural Program held in Talavadi, Chamarajanagara District on June 21, 2023. Emphasizing the importance of fostering harmonious relations, Dr. Somashekar urged the elimination of conflicts with neighboring states and the establishment of mutual understanding and cooperation.
The cultural event, organized by the Authority to celebrate and promote the rich heritage of the border areas, witnessed a diverse range of performances. Dr. Somashekar credited the inspiration for such programs to His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji of Suttur, whose efforts have added a global touch to the preservation of human values.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Somashekar highlighted the pivotal role played by His Holiness Swamiji as a bridge between Talavadi, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Karnataka, known for its cultural opulence, has been a welcoming haven for individuals seeking spiritual, cultural, and political growth. While acknowledging the geographical dispersion of Kannada-speaking communities, Dr. Somashekar emphasized that their shared language and art forms have remained steadfast reminders of their cultural roots. He stressed the collective responsibility to safeguard and promote the Kannada language, urging parents not to overlook the importance of providing education in Kannada medium schools alongside the current trend of English medium education.
Joining Dr. Somashekar in his call for cultural preservation and development, Sri Vishwanath P. Hiremath, Director of the Department of Kannada and Culture, expressed his views on the vital role played by the Border Area Development Authority. He highlighted the need for a steadfast commitment to protect the land and language, noting the exemplary efforts made by JSS Mahavidyapeetha in fulfilling tasks of the State government.
Smt. M. Bhageerathi, Block Education Officer, stressed the need to overcome the prevailing mindset favoring English medium education. She urged the community to recognize and support the presence of Kannada medium schools in Talavadi, encouraging parents to consider them as viable and valuable educational institutions for their children.
Distinguished guests, including Sri Prakash Mattihalli, Secretary of the Karnataka Border Area Development Authority, Sri Mallikarjunswamy, Joint Director of the Department of Kannada and Culture, and Sri S. Channajappa, President of the Kannada Sangha, shared their insights and perspectives on the occasion. The felicitation ceremony honored Sri K. Krishnamurthy, Sri V. Gopal, Sri Jaipul Jayashekar, Sri S. Shambhulingappa, and Sri C. Jadeswamy for their remarkable contributions.
The event witnessed the presence of esteemed individuals, including Sri B.S. Puttaraju, Former Deputy Mayor of Bengaluru, Smt. Ratnamma Kalanayaka, Chairman of the Talavadi Panchayat Union, Smt. Dakshayini Kumar, President of the Gram Panchayat, Smt. Sarvamangala Somashekar, and Sri M.J. Veerabhadraswamy.
The proceedings commenced with a warm welcome by G. Shivanna, followed by an invocation by Sri M. Basavanna. Prof. Morabada Mallikarjun skillfully orchestrated the program, ensuring its seamless flow, while Sri Veerabhadraswamy extended a heartfelt vote of thanks.
The captivating evening unfolded with an array of vibrant folk performances, including Veeragase, Nandikamba, Mangala Vaadya, Kamsale, and enchanting band sets, captivating the audience before the commencement of the stage programs.