Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Sept 8: In a moving tribute to one of India’s most revered social reformers, the Brahmashri Narayana Guru Jayanti was celebrated with solemnity and purpose at Shree Gokarnanatha Temple, Kudroli, under the joint auspices of the Dakshina Kannada District Administration, Zilla Panchayat Kannada and Culture Department, and with the collaboration of the temple management.

Umanath A Kotian, MLA of Moodbidri, inaugurated the celebrations and, in a stirring address, stated: “Brahmashri Narayana Guru was a visionary saint who gave the world the message of ‘One caste, one religion, one God’. Even as a young boy, he stood against societal discrimination. He was not only a philosopher but also a liberator who helped the marginalised attain dignity and recognition. His teachings remain a guiding light – let us embody them in our lives.”

Presiding over the ceremony, MLC Ivan D’Souza highlighted the larger impact of Guru’s teachings: “Narayana Guru’s Jayanti is a message for all humanity. That’s why the government under Siddaramaiah’s leadership chose to officially observe this day. His influence in Kerala led to sweeping social and educational reforms. When we accept that humanity belongs to one caste, discrimination has no place. His call for unity is something that must reach every corner of our nation.”

Delivering a lecture on the life and work of the Guru, Smithesh S Barya shed light on his silent revolution: “Brahmashri Narayana Guru launched a spiritual and social renaissance against untouchability and inequality. Through movements like SNDP, he opened the doors of knowledge for the masses. His message remains timeless – especially crucial for world peace today.”

Dignitaries in attendance

Among those present were Sadashiva Ullal, chairman of Mangaluru Urban Development Authority; Mamatha Gattidadka, chairperson of Karnataka Cashew Development Corporation; Narvade Vinayak Karbari, CEO of the Zilla Panchayat; Raju, additional deputy commissioner; Anil Kumar, additional superintendent of police; Jayaraj H, president of the Kudroli Temple Administrative Board; Padmaraj, treasurer; and others.

Rajesh, assistant director of the Kannada and Culture Department, delivered the welcome address, while Dinesh Rai expertly anchored the programme.

Teachers’ Day marked with sincerity and substance at Halekote

In a parallel celebration of values that shape society, Teachers’ Day was observed on Saturday at the Syed Madani Educational Institution, Halekote, under the aegis of the Syed Madani Charitable Trust.

Presiding over the function, Mohammad Twaha, former general secretary of Ullal Dargah, reflected on the role of educators: “We live life based on our faith in God. While our parents show us the path initially, it is the teachers who hold our hands and guide us forward. Even in expensive private schools, students often rely on tuition. But here at Halekote School, without charging fees or resorting to private tuition, children are achieving excellent results. This stands as proof of the teachers’ sincerity – they are not just working for a salary, but with dedication and passion.”

Notable guests included:

• H R Eshwar, Block Education Officer

• Zanuddin, President of Halekote Mastidul Kareem

• Ismail Hajabba, School Administrator

• Althaf U H, Member, School Development Committee

• Ibrahim M H, Former Administrator

• Rafiq Tumbe, President, Fine Arts Teachers’ Association

• Shashikala Shetty, Retired Teacher

• Naseema, Headmistress, Hazrath Syed Madani School, Kallapu

• Geetha Shetty, Kotepura

K M K Manjanady, Headmaster, gave the introductory remarks.

Students Sareekathul Tabassum and Fatimath Safa compered the event, while Fatima Sahla extended the vote of thanks.