Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Nov 1: Presiding over the 71st Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations at Nehru Maidan here on Sunday, Dakshina Kannada district in-charge minister U T Khader stated that true linguistic pride lies in bringing people together with affection, rather than alienating speakers of other tongues.
He described Kannada not merely as a language, but as the very identity and soul of the land, reflecting the continuous flow of the Cauvery, the majesty of the Sahyadri mountains, and the rhythm of the coastal waves. The minister noted that Kannada represents both the pride of a rich past and the responsibility of the future.
Highlighting the state's profound literary legacy, Khader observed that the visionary writings of Pampa, the egalitarian Vachanas of Basavanna, the self-awareness in Akkamahadevi's works, and the universal humanism of Kuvempu guide society beyond the narrow boundaries of caste, religion, and gender. He proudly mentioned Kannada's classical language status, its 2,000-year history, and the eight Jnanpith awards that underscore its literary brilliance, urging Kannadigas to remain true to their roots regardless of where they live.
Integrating Kannada with the digital age
Shifting focus to the modern era, the minister stressed the urgent need to seamlessly integrate Kannada with artificial intelligence and digital education. He asserted that Kannada must evolve beyond being a mere consumer of technology to becoming an active contributor to technological advancements.
The survival of any language depends heavily on its practical utility, he added. Khader urged policymakers to ensure that a farmer expressing his grievances in Kannada receives prompt government services, and that students studying in the state language are provided with quality education and robust career opportunities. He noted that the youth must find adequate platforms for employment and entrepreneurship within the state.
Push for official recognition of state flag
Speaking on the Congress government's proactive measures, Khader said the administration is driven by a visionary action plan, rather than empty slogans. He reiterated the state government's firm commitment to securing official recognition for the Karnataka state flag (Nada Dhwaja) through a cabinet resolution, all-party consensus, and constructive dialogue with the central government.
He lauded chief minister D K Shivakumar for his leadership, noting his dual focus on the state's comprehensive development and the preservation of Kannada culture.
"We must have immense pride in our language, but it should not become a wall of narrow-mindedness. True love for a language lies in respecting other languages and absorbing their good qualities to further enrich our own. Rajyotsava should be celebrated as a festival in every household, not just as a government programme," Khader remarked.
During the ceremony, 120 individuals and 53 organisations were conferred with the district Rajyotsava awards for their outstanding contributions across various fields. The event also featured an attractive march-past by the police, NCC cadets, and students from various educational institutions.
MP Capt Brijesh Chowta, MLA Vedavyas Kamath, Karnataka Cashew Development Corporation chairperson Mamata Gatti, Karnataka State Minimum Wages Advisory Board chairman T M Shahid, Mangalore Urban Development Authority chairman Santhosh Kumar Shetty, Ganiga Development Corporation chairman Vishwas Kumar Das, Karnataka State Konkani Sahitya Academy president Joachim Stanley Alvares, Dakshina Kannada deputy commissioner Darshan H V, and Mangaluru police commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy were present.