Chief Minister D K Shivakumar addressed the Mangalore Dasara Mahotsava at the Kudroli Sri Gokarnanath Temple on Thursday, reiterating the state government's pledge to protect the culture, religious heritage and natural wealth of coastal Karnataka.
He portrayed Dasara as the emblem of Mysore royal splendor and Mangalore devotional fervour, describing it as a source of pride, a driver of economic activity and a symbol of societal unity.
Shivakumar emphasized that his concern lies with people's livelihoods rather than political calculations, stating that the government is formulating plans to give a new shape to the coastal region while keeping the aspirations of its residents at the forefront.
The chief minister lauded the contributions of coastal elders, calling the area a living university of culture and tradition, and affirmed that Karnataka remains incomplete without the coastal belt comprising Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
Addressing Tulu speakers and legislators, he urged them to set aside party differences and honour the Tulu language, announcing that a historic cabinet meeting held in Mangalore resulted in a decision to give the language official respect.
He urged every citizen to nurture the language learned from mothers, linking linguistic preservation to the continuity of local culture.
Shivakumar highlighted that Dasara celebrations foster harmony and that temples remain free of partisan politics, insisting that cultural programmes must progress alongside development.
He added that Mysore Dasara will also showcase coastal cultural elements, including Kambala and other traditional sports, to promote regional diversity.
Beyond the ceremonial inauguration, the chief minister described his visit as a personal pilgrimage, seeking blessings from Mahalakshmi, Gokarnanatha, Annapurneshwari and the Narayana Gurus.
Concluding with a metaphor of small streams merging into the sea, he pledged pure administration, equitable service and a vision of equal opportunity for all citizens.
The Kudroli temple representatives submitted three principal demands to the chief minister, which he assured would be examined promptly.
Image: varthabharati.in
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati DK