Mangalore: Colourful Procession, Cultural Events mark 'Abbakka Utsav'
Pics by Apul Ira

Mangalore, January 30 (DHNS) : Minister for Higher Education Dr V S Acharya has said that the government is planning to earmark funds in the budget for the Abbakka Utsav celebrations.

Speaking at the Abbakka Utsav held at Assaigoli on the outskirts of the city here on Saturday, he said the Abbakka Utsav Committee should think of observing Abbakka Utsav either in the second or third week of January in an organised manner every year. The State government is committed for the celebration of Abbakka Utsav. Till recently, the Kannada and Culture department was getting only Rs 10 to Rs 15 crore in the budget. However, Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa has given more than Rs 200 crore for the promotion of language, culture, art and tradition.

Mangalore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) Chairman Dr Madhav Bhandary said there is no scarcity of litterateurs and books in the country. “Unfortunately, we have failed to inculcate the knowledge from the books in our day-to-day affairs. Abbakka Utsav should not be restricted to a particular day. Instead, girl children in the society must be encouraged to develop strength and courage in them so as to face any situation and challenges posed in the society,” he said.

Mayor Rajani Dugganna said that the students should be involved in the Abbakka Utsav celebration so that her principles are inculcated in them.

MLA U T Khader said that if opportunity is given, several ‘Abbakkas’ will come up in society to raise their voice against oppression in the society. “Abbakka had given importance to harmony in the society. When harmony prevails, development of the society is possible,” he added.

In his introductory remarks, former MLA Jayaram Shetty said that international airport should be named after Rani Abbakka. Abbakka Study Centre should be set up at the Mangalore University for the indepth study on Abbakka. An Abbakka Bhavan should be set up for the promotion of activities.

Prior to the main programme, a procession was taken out from Deralakatte to the venue. The procession included ‘Poorna kumbha,’ ‘Mangala vadya,’ ‘Keelukudure,’ Yakshagana dolls, ‘Dollu kunitha,’ dolls, ‘Navilu nrithya,’ colourful umbrellas and ‘Abbakka on horse.’