Pics: Spoorthi Ullal / Ramesh Pandith
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (JS)
Mangaluru, Jan 23: The week-long Karavali Utsav got off to a grand start here on Saturday January 23 with a colouful procession that showcased the tradition and culture of Tulunadu.
The procession that was flagged off by renowned Bhagavata Koliyur Ramachandra Rao at Kadri Park culminated at Karavali Utsav grounds. As many as 47 cultural troupes, scouts and guides and others participated in the procession.
The event was formally inaugurated by pro-chancellor of Nitte University Dr Shantaram Shetty
Addressing the gathering, "I am happy and proud to inaugurate Karavali Utsav. I have lived 60 years of my life in this city, and if I have made a name, it is only because of the love of the people of Mangaluru. People might ask what a doctor is doing here. Doctors are usually busy in their work and not often seen in cultural events. Maybe that is the reason the district administration decided to have me as a chief guest for a change.
"People of coastal region are ahead in every field, be it education, banking, healthcare, hotels, sports or anything. Recognizing the talents of this region is very important. Efforts of people's representatives and officials in organizing the Karavali Utsav is laudable," he said.
"We have to make Mangaluru a Smart City, but it is not possible only by politicians and officials. It requires the support of citizens. Let us all work towards it. I thank the district administration for giving me this opportunity," he added.
District in-charge minister Ramanath Rai said, "We have seen tradition and culture of the coastal region come alive in this procession. Last year, we started giving Karavali Honorary Awards, and this year too the awards will be conferred on Republic Day.
"Dakshina Kannada is a unique district where people of different faiths and languages live together There is a festive atmosphere throughout the year. This kind of environment cannot be seen in any other place. I am happy that many prominent people who have made a name nationally and internationally hail from this district," he added.
MLA J R Lobo who presided over the programme said, "I congratulate the deputy commissioner on organizing Karavali Utsav so well in such a short time. We make Karavali Utsav a tourist attraction if we improvise and make it better. Let the positive aspects of this city be known to the whole world. Our people become achievers wherever they go.
"Peace and harmony in society is very important. Let us work towards maintaining a peaceful society. If there is no peace, then development in any form is of no use. Peace was there, it is there and will always be there. Let us all be good citizens," he appealed.
Dr Shantaram Shetty was felicitated on the occasion.
The inaugural ceremony concluded with vibrant cultural progammes.
MLC Ivan D'Souza, mayor Jacintha Alfred, Roy Castelino, Mohammed Hanif, Divya Prabha Gowda, Purushottam Chitrapur and others were present.