Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)
Udupi, Nov 17: Governor of Karnataka, Vajubhai Rudabhai inaugurated the four day long folk fest ‘national cultural integration- 2015’ on Monday November 16 at Rajangana, here which was organized by the Paryaya Sri Kaniyoor Math and Sri Krishna Math.
Vajubhai addressing the gathering said, "Youngsters should be committed to preserving ones religion and culture. They should be ready to sacrifice their life for ones nation. Youth should dedicate their lives to strengthening the nation."
He recalled the days of God Sri Krishna and quoted a few lines from the Bhagavad Gita.
Rudabhai explained that construction of schools and hospitals, devotion, religious donations, pooja are not enough to build a strong nation. Parents must also teach their children about democracy, religion and our rich culture. Patriotic values should be developed among students. Sri Krishna math gives equal priority to religion as well as to spiritual thoughts. India reflects our rich cultural heritage and is known for diversity.
He added that the nation's progress lies in respecting and empowering women. So there is need for empowerment of women.
Sri Vidyavallabha Theerta Swamiji, Kaniyur Math blessed the gathering.
Sri Vidyasagara Theerta Swamiji, Krishnapur Math presided over the programme.
Chief guest MP Shobha Karandlaje said that our nation is witness to many historical milestones but responsible persons are justifying cow slaughter at public meetings. It is very unfortunate to have such politicians in politics.
Former MLA Raghupati Bhat, Dr Ramappa, chairman, Indian Cultural Academy, Yuvraj, president, CMC Udupi, Diwan Raghupati Acharya and others were present.
Madhvacharya welcomed the gathering and Gopalacharya compered the program.
A total of 13 cultural groups consisting of around 200 to 300 artistes arrived from 12 states to take part in the fest. The dance groups that participated in the programme are as follows: Siddigoma (Gujarat), Bishu (Assamese), Kaal Develiya (Rajashthan) were performed on November 16, Deepam (Goa), Ghataka (Panjab), Ghattipoopa (Odisha), Bareedi (Madhyapradesh), Joodishank (Jarkhand) will be performed on November 17, Manipuri (Manipura), Raizans (West Bengal), Yallamma Jogalakatte (Karnataka Rona), Mayuri Dance (Uttar Pradesh) for November 18, Drums Dance (Rajasthan), Women’s Veeragase (Karnataka), Bhootal (Assam), Lambani Dance (Karnataka), Lavani (Maharastra)for November 19.
The cultural folk dance procession starts from Jodukatte junction and right upto Car Street.