His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji and Pontiff of the Udupi Puttige Math lighting the lamp to inaugurate the Golden Jubilee celebration of the Vidyaranya Kannada Federation, at a program held at Chicago, USA, on September 17. Sri Asha Gurudatt, Sri Srinivas Bhat and Sri Rajesh Krishnan are seen in the picture.
Gaithersburg, September 17, 2022:
His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji, revered spiritual leader, expressed admiration for the efforts of Kannadiga families residing in the USA during the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Vidyaranya Kannada Federation. The event, held in Chicago on September 17, showcased the unity and commitment of Kannadigas in preserving and promoting their culture and heritage abroad.
Inaugurating the program with his blessings, His Holiness highlighted the significance of Kannada, an ancient language with a history spanning over 1500 years. He commended the various Kannada sanghas in the USA, emphasizing their shared mission to uphold and propagate the Kannada language and culture. His Holiness acknowledged the instrumental role played by the Vachanakaras and Sharanas in enriching the Kannada language. He described Kannada as a language of the common people that has facilitated his own spiritual journey.
Speaking about the Vidyaranya Kannada Federation, named after Vidyaranya, the revered founder and guide of the historic Kannada dynasty Vijayanagara, His Holiness praised its establishment and emphasized its commendable achievement of completing 50 years and celebrating its golden jubilee. He extended his blessings, wishing the federation continued success in perpetuating the essence of Kannada.
Sri Sugunendra Theertha Sripadangalavaru of the Udupi Sriputtige Math also graced the occasion with his blessings, expressing joy at witnessing the golden jubilee celebration of the Vidyaranya Kannada Federation. He highlighted the significant contributions of Kannada and Karnataka to Indian culture, mentioning great saints such as Madhwacharya, Shankaracharya, and Shivasharana Basavanna, who were born in the state.
The event also featured a captivating musical performance by renowned playback singer Sri Rajesh Krishnan. Federation President Sri Srinivas Bhat and Vice-President Smt. Asha Gurudatt was among the dignitaries present.
The program commenced with an invocation by Sakhyanka J., accompanied by Sohank J. on the musical instrument. Smt. Ramyarao skillfully managed the proceedings.