Udupi District Minister Rizwan Arshad outlined an ambitious development agenda for Udupi on Sunday, speaking at the 71st Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations held at the Mahatma Gandhi District Stadium. After hoisting the national flag and inspecting the guard of honour from various contingents, Minister Arshad articulated his vision to elevate Udupi district through enhanced tourism, fisheries, agriculture, horticulture, and youth engagement.
He described his role as Udupi's district minister as a blessing from Kannada Thayi, particularly given his roots in Mysuru and Udupi's status as the cultural heart of the coastal region and abode of Lord Krishna. Arshad expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve this land, acknowledging its legacy of communal harmony, brotherhood, and respect for all faiths, nurtured by Lord Krishna's presence and the spiritual heritage of the Ashta Maths pontiffs.
Drawing on values instilled by his parents, the minister stressed the importance of loving everyone without discrimination. He asserted that religion should remain a personal matter, advocating for a shared identity as Indians and Kannadigas once individuals step outside their homes or places of worship. Humanity, he firmly believed, transcended all religions, echoing Kannada's Adikavi Pampa's message: 'Manuja Kulam Taanonde Valam' (The human race is one).
Arshad paid tribute to Udupi's rich heritage, mentioning figures like Madhwacharya, saint Kanakadasa, and Narayana Guru, who championed equality. He also recalled Khan Bahadur Haji Abdullah Qasim Saheb's contributions to charity and philanthropy, respecting both maths and mosques. The minister noted Udupi's connection to significant Christian heritage sites like Attur Church and Bengaluru's St. Mary's Basilica. He further honored Jnanpith laureates Kota Shivaram Karanth and Dr. U.R. Ananthamurthy, along with Paa.Vem. Acharya, Vyasaraaya Ballal, and Dr. T.M.A. Pai, who transformed Manipal into an educational hub. The district's pride in contemporary talents like actors Rishab Shetty and Rakshit Shetty was also highlighted.
Looking ahead, a significant tourism development project is planned for the beaches of Trasi and Maravanthe. This initiative, valued at approximately Rs. 48 crore, will span 7.07 acres and include a resort, an amusement park, and sports facilities. Arshad concluded by expressing satisfaction that Udupi, a land of intellectuals, has achieved full literacy, a testament to its students' talent and accomplishments.
Image: Wikipedia — Rizwan Arshad
📰 Source: Mangalorean News