Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (DV)

Mangaluru, Feb 13: Dr B Devadas Rai, former district president of Rotary Club on Friday February 13 released the invitation of Hindu Samajostava which will be held on March 1 at Nehru Maidan to mark the golden jubliee celebration of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP).

Addressing the gathering after releasing releasing the invitation, "A vehicle rally will be held prior to the Hindu Samajotsava. Preparations are on in full swing to ensure that the convention is held with gaiety and fervour. Rotary Club will extend all support to this programme. Let them hold such good programmes even in future."

Ganesh Rao, honorary president for the VHP golden jubilee celebration, said, "The programme is being organized within a certain framework and limits of law. The district administration and the police department have assured of cooperation. Already 3,000 party activists are involved in the preparation work, and day by day the number of volunteers is increasing. As part of the Hindu Samajotsava, shops, houses and vehicles in the city will be decorated with 'Bhagavad Dhwaja' (flags).

"The main intention of Hindu Samajotsava is to promote the development of Hindu Samaj and to introspect about demerits, and spread awareness on issues like forced conversion, love Jihad etc," he added.

M B Puranik, provinical president of VHP said, "The concept of Hindu Samajotsava emerged from Mangaluru during 1981. Special committees have been formed for the smooth functioning of the programme."

"Door-to-door campaign for the convention has started. All Hindus irrespective of political parties will take part in this convention for the unity of Hindu Samaj. Even Christians and Muslims are welcome if they come with an open mind, if not, it is fine. 'Bhagavad Dhwaja' is not symbol of any community but it is a message of peace and unity. Hence these flags will be used to adorn temples, houses, and vehicles and the entire city will be decorated," he said.

VHP leader Jagadish Shenava said, "Dr D Veerendra Heggade will preside, Sri Vishweshateertha Swamiji of Pejawar Math will bless the occasion. Moreover, 20 religious heads of Hindu Samaj will take part in this programme."

Prior to Hindu Samajotsava, Bajrang Dal along with pro-Hindu outfits will hold a massive vehicle rally on Febraury 20 at 10 am. The rally will commence from Hindu Samajotsava office and pass through Kadri Mallikatte, Lower Bendore, Balmatta, Hampankatta, State Bank via Market Road, Car Street, New Chitra, Kudroli Temple, Lady Hill, Lalbagh, PVS Bunts hostel and culminate at Hindu Samajotsava office.

On February 15 also, a vehicle rally will be held at five places outside the city.