Daijiworld Media Network—Madikeri (RD/CN)

Madikeri, Jul 29: “Regional languages and culture are facing the onslaught of globalization and it’s the responsibility of everyone to foster regional art, literature, language, and culture,” said Manu Baligar, commissioner, state Kannada and Culture department.

He was speaking after inaugurating the Beary Literary–Cultural Convention, held at Kaveri Hall, here recently.  It was organized by the Beary Sahitya Academy.

“Although our country has many religions and a diverse culture, there is unity among Indians in diversity,” added Baligar.“Beary Sahitya Academy does immense service in promoting Beary language. Although Beary and Kodava linguists are few in numbers, the state grants equal funds for their Academy.  It’s significant that the Academy’s role is much more important than the people,” stressed Baligar.

Beary Sahitya Academy president M B Abdul Rehman, in his presidential address, said that the Academy has been laying stress on literature, education, and thereby works for the betterment of society. “It’s not restricted to one community,” he said. Former MLA K M Ibrahim, Karnataka Kodava Sahitya Academy president Rani Machayya, and Badriya Jamaat president M E Hanif also spoke on the occasion.

Academy registrar Umarabba welcomed the gathering. A poets’ session was held after the stage programme which was chaired by B A Shamsuddin Madikeri. MLC M C Nanaiah presided over the valedictory ceremony.

Kodagu district Kannada Sahitya Parishat president T P Ramesh and G Rajendra, chief editor, ‘Shakti’ Kannada daily, spoke on the occasion.

Moilnji Makers troupe staged ‘Beary Qavvali’, Star Singers Padubidri group staged Beary folk singing, Beary Media Makers group and Madikeri Crescent School students staged various cultural programmes.