Media Release
New Jersey, Sep 7: Puttige Mutt seer Sugunendrateertha Swamiji called on Kannadigas in US to respect Kannada and also preserve the pride in a very meaningful manner.
He was speaking after inaugurating the Association of Kannada Kootas of America (AKKA), the Kannada convention of the Kannadigas in United States of America at Gubbi Veeranna Mantapa here. Elaborating with an example he said with a tinge of humour that in order to acquire pride the Kannadigas need to consume sugar from Mandya and salt from coastal districts of Karnataka. Along with the pride for the language one has to have equal respect for the other languages which is like earth revolving around sun all along rotating on its axis, he added.
Seer also noted the Karnataka government's encouragement for organization of such programmes abroad. Seer said that it is this pride for nation that has motivated Indians to achieve heights abroad. He called on to organize children's Kannada convention for proper introduction of Kannada into generation next. On the occasion, he also appreciated the efforts of the local Vrindavana Kannada Sangha.
The inaugural function reminded one of the Dasara splendour with its traditional festivities. While American and Indian Anthems were played, the nadageete Jai Bharata Jananiya...and AKKA geete too reverberated at the venue. Group dance, singing and artistes sonning Yakshagana costumes too added to the vibrant atmosphere.
Edison mayor Antonia Ricigliano, minister Jagadish Shettar, BJP leader Shankar Murthy, actors, Punit Rajkumar, Ramya, Jaggesh and Mukyamantri Chandru, who is also the chairman of Karnataka State Kannada Development Authority graced the occasion.
The persons behind AKKA convention, Amarnath Gowda, Ravi Denkana Kote, Madhurangaiah, Usha Prasanna, Dyanand Adappa and Shankar Shetty were present. Veena Mohan compered the programme.