On Sunday, August 28, Udupi leaders convened at the Bannanje Billava Seva Sangha for the 172nd birth anniversary celebration of Sri Narayana Guru. Manjunath Poojary Mudradi, Chairman of the Sri Narayana Guru Development Corporation, underscored that Udupi district's comprehensive progress hinges on communal harmony and unity, urging residents to transcend caste and religious divisions. The event, 'Guru's Message Harmony Jatha and State-level Speech Competition,' was organised by the Udupi District Billava Yuva Vedike.
In his inaugural address, Mr. Poojary highlighted the untapped potential for industrial, IT-BT, and tourism growth in coastal Karnataka. He asserted that achieving this all-round development requires residents to set aside animosities based on caste and religion, embracing unity and harmony. He called upon the youth to embody Narayana Guru's principles, shaping their future through collective effort. Poojary pointed out that despite coastal Karnataka's leadership in education, health, and resources, significant business investment remains elusive. He attributed this to ongoing attempts to disrupt communal peace, which he stated tarnishes the region's reputation. He urged citizens to unite for societal well-being, focusing on life's struggles rather than religiously motivated conflicts.
Kaup MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty, speaking at the same gathering, advocated for greater student involvement in Narayana Guru Jayanti celebrations. He announced plans for a delegation of all coastal MLAs, led by former minister V. Sunil Kumar, to meet Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar during the Belagavi winter session. Their objective: to secure a ₹500 crore grant for the Sri Narayana Guru Development Corporation. Shetty echoed the sentiment of unity, urging political rivals to set aside differences and foster harmony.
Presiding over the event, Praveen M. Poojary, District President of Udupi District Billava Yuva Vedike, presented several demands. He called for adequate funding for the Narayana Guru Development Corporation, the installation of a statue of Sri Narayana Guru in front of the Legislative Assembly, and the declaration of a public holiday on his birth anniversary. Furthermore, Mr. Poojary urged all schools and colleges to celebrate the Jayanti and incorporate Guru's teachings into their curriculum.
Other dignitaries present included former MLA K. Raghupathi Bhat; Prabhakar Poojari, Managing Director of Shivasagar Group; Naveenchandra Suvarna Adve, President of Kaup Taluk Guarantee Committee; Ramesh Kanchan, President of Udupi Taluk Guarantee Implementation Committee; Suryodaya Perampalli, President of Sri Brahmabaidarkala Cultural Study Center, Adiudupi; Srinivas Poojary Manipal, President of Babbuswami Daivasthana, Manipal; Bhaskar Jattan, Honorary President of Billava Seva Sangha, Santekatte; Divakar Sanil, Honorary President of Udupi District Billava Yuva Vedike; and Suryakanth J. Suvarna, President of Billava Mahamandala, Mulki. Sunil Kumar Malpe delivered the vote of thanks, and Tejas J. Bangera compered the program.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati Udupi