Rons Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 13: The 45th International Cultural Festival and Cultural Exchange program was organized at the Silver Jubilee Museum Hall in Agatti, Lakshadweep, on August 10, 2024. The event was held in collaboration with the International Cultural Festival Council (India) and Agatti Folk Art Organizations.

Retired Army officer K K Mohammed Rehman inaugurated the event by unveiling the "We Believe in Harmony" plaque. Reflecting on his service, he stated, "Patriotism should be our core mantra. The moments of bravery during the 1972 India-Pakistan war still give me goosebumps."

Rosald Mosley, a consulting architect from Germany, addressed the gathering, recalling how the Berlin Wall, built due to political differences, couldn't stand against the forces of friendship and love, leading to its eventual dismantling.

The primary aim of this event is to spread the message of peace worldwide. Professor Ashok Narode, head of the Kannada Department at KLE, Mahalingpur, emphasized, "Let us strive to realize the universal truth that all humanity is one, as proclaimed by the poet Pampa. Basavanna’s vision of a just society wishes well for all living beings. May the desire for a world free from war rise from every heart."

Dr M P Varsha, managing trustee of Credit-I from Mysuru, described Lakshadweep as one of the most beautiful places on earth, with natural beauty that will continue to attract global tourists. "In a few years, it will become a paradise on Earth," she added.

ICFCI president K P Manjunath Sagar highlighted how such cultural exchange programs foster harmony between nations, languages, and communities. "This is why we have successfully conducted 45 international cultural festivals worldwide," he remarked.

Prominent guests included Dr K B Nagoor, president of India Masters Athletic Federation, Kannada film producer Shankregowda from Mysuru, retired Mysuru district commissioner Dr D S Vishwanath IAS, and K Nagraj, president of the Karnataka Folk Artists Federation. Several achievers from various fields, including Dr Anjaneya Raichur, Gona Swamy from Bengaluru, Chitra from Mysuru, Dr B N Horapeti, and Priyadarshini Mundargi Math, were honored with awards.

Entertainment programs included performances by international singers Gona Swamy and Pushpa Aradhya, and Agatti singers Razak and Shaherbanu. Folk artists from Shivamogga, including Belliyappa Bangarappa and Shobhi Kumar, performed Dollu Kunitha. Noted mimicry artist Madeva Sattigeri presented a comedy show, while renowned photographer Satish Mural showcased his photography. Dance performances by Ansia Ayesha's team and children from Agatti, as well as Agatti folk artists presenting Parachu Kali and Ulakka Mattu folk dances, captivated the audience.