Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (LDS)
Mangaluru, Jun 21: A two-day exhibition on traditional Indian utensils and equipment, ‘Samskruthi’, was inaugurated at St Agnes Autonomous College on Tuesday June 21, organised by the department of English, Hindi and Kannada.
The programme was inaugurated by the esteemed guests, in a unique manner, by pouring rice into one of the traditional vessels.
Addressing the gathering, chief guest Rajesh G said that this was the perfect occasion which provided a chance to witness the traditional equipment of the earlier times. “They are eco-friendly and are for daily use. We have been accustomed to using goods made of plastic and not unbothered of the drastic effects posing on nature. It is high time that we adopt our ancestral practices,” he said. Congratulating the institution, he added that the glorious college has transformed lives of innumerable children.
The keynote speech was delivered by Naresh Malligemadu, who focussed on the importance of ancient traditions. He said that the International Yoga Day was a perfect chance to organize ‘Samskruthi', as both represent the fine Indian culture. “Our cultural practices are our treasure. We do not practice our old traditions which has led to their disintegration,” he said.
He further said, “When we lived together in a family, the values and traditions were imparted to our younger generations. We have been using their tools and today, we re-look at them with a sense of belongingness. That is the very essence of our traditions. We have placed western culture on the pedestal. We must rethink on what it is, why it is important. We need to adopt our culture in our lives. Cruelness has crept into our mind that we believe whatever we do is the right thing. We must not let go of our values and traditions, but hand it over to our next generation.”
Principal of St Agnes College Dr M Venissa AC said, “These equipment represent late history and invaluable experience. We may not be aware of the usage of these things. We have forgotten to preserve and use it later. We look forward to learn something, relive the past, enriching and experimental living.”
The principal also lauded the efforts of the language department teachers and students. She opined that it was indeed a herculean task, yet they managed to collect all the items that were on display.
The event was compered by Leona, Vijaya Bharati welcomed the gathering, and Rafa Sulthan rendered the vote of thanks.