Bantwal's 71st Kannada Rajyotsava celebration on November 1st at the Mini Vidhana Soudha premises in BC Road sparked a significant proposal for future recognition. Vishwanath Bantwal, President of the Bantwal Taluk Kannada Sahitya Parishat, urged the taluk administration to initiate a tradition of identifying and honouring local achievers from next year. This new award system, he suggested, would mirror the state and district-level Rajyotsava awards, recognizing individuals who have significantly contributed to the land, language, and culture across various fields within Bantwal taluk.
The event, jointly organized by the Bantwal Taluk Administration and the National Festivals Celebration Committee, saw Taluk Tahsildar G. Manjunath hoist the flag. Manjunath underscored that Kannada Rajyotsava transcends mere festivities; it serves as a crucial day to foster pride in our heritage, language, and identity. He articulated its role in publicizing the struggles, unity, revolution, and rich history of Kannadigas. Adding to this sentiment, Sachin Kumar, the Taluk Panchayat Executive Officer, emphasized that Kannada, our mother tongue, should integrate into daily life rather than being confined to a single day's observance. He encouraged experiencing the sweetness of the language through its consistent use in everyday activities.
A powerful message also came from Ashni R Shetty, a 9th-grade student from Bantwal – Vidyagiri S.V.S English Medium School. While advocating for learning all global languages, she simultaneously championed developing linguistic pride by actively using one's mother tongue daily.
The celebration commenced with an attractive parade featuring contingents from the police, home guards, NCC, NSS, Scouts, Guides, and various school bands and instrumental teams. Bantwal MLA U Rajesh Naik received the guard of honor, signifying the official proceedings. Distinguished attendees included Jayanthi V Poojari, President of the Bantwal Taluk Guarantee Scheme Implementation Committee; Malathi, Field Education Officer; Taranath Salian, AEE of Panchayat Raj Engineering Sub-division; and other departmental officers.
During the program, two individuals were felicitated for their notable accomplishments: Baby Pradhya Y Kulal, recognized by the India Book of Records, and Gladius Payas, a retired teacher who achieved special success in athletics. Following the formal proceedings, students from various schools presented vibrant cultural programs. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Ramananda Noojippadi, after Asha Naik, Taluk Physical Education Inspector, delivered the welcome address. Surekha Yalavara expertly compered the entire program.
Image: varthabharati.in
đź“° Source: Vartha Bharati DK

