By Inchara - Kaup
Daijiworld Media Network—Udupi (RD/CN)

Udupi, Nov 17: “Although English is essential in an era of globalization, it’s also equally essential to sustain Kannada and its distinct culture,” said Karkala MLA H Gopal Bhandary.

He was speaking after inaugurating the Udupi and Karkala taluk Beary talent competitions for primary and high school students, organized by Karnataka Beary Sahitya Academy and Padubidri Government Higher Primary School, in association with Udupi, Brahmavar, and Karkala block education office on Tuesday November 15.
MLA Gopal Bhandary inaugurated the competitions by beating a traditional drum.

“It’s ironical that owing to the pressures of English medium schools, Kannada medium schools are being forced to shut down.  It’s due to the rising numbers of English medium schools,” said Bhandary.  “All regional languages are useful for diverse study and promote secularism,” he added.

Beary Sahitya Academy president M V Abdul Rehman presided over the programme.

ZP member Geethanjali Suvarna, TP member Bhaskar Padubidri, Padubidri gram panchayat president Vijayalaxmi Acharya, member Vijay M Amin, retired head master S A Razak, Udupi block education co-ordinator head teacher Sarojini, and block education co-ordinator Adam Davalagi were present on the occasion.

Academy registrar Umarabba welcomed the gathering.  B M Thumbe compered the programme.  Academy member and convener S P Ummer Farouq proposed the vote of thanks. Over 500 students participated in various competitions.