Daijiworld News Network - Bantwal (GA) - pics - Rons Bantwal

Bantwal, Oct 4: Veteran freedom fighter Dr Ammembal Balappa was honoured by former defence minister George Fernandes during a function held at Brahma Shri Narayana Guru Auditorium near here on Monday October 2 evening.

Speaking on the occasion, George Fernandes said that Dr Balappa is one of the courageous freedom fighters he has seen in his life.  "I have had some personal relationship with this great personality.  I take great pride in saying that he is my idol," said Fernandes.

Former chief minister Veerappa Moily, former state minister Ramanath Rai, ZP president Mamata D S Gatti, head of the history department of Varsity Dr Peter Wilson, Karnataka Tulu Sahtiya Academy president Sitaram Kulal, Vittal MLA Padmanabh Kottari and others were also present on the occasion.

Earlier Dr Ammembal Balappa and other chief guests were taken on a procession to the auditorium from B C Road.  Colourful umbrellas, "Kalladka Gombe" were the prime attraction of the procession.