Mangaluru: Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said that literature and art are integral to dharma and play a vital role in preserving culture and social values. He was speaking at the launch of a music school, hall and dining facility built as part of the 105th birth anniversary celebrations of V Kanchana Venkasubrahmanyam, founder-guru of Kanchana Lakshminarayana Music Academy Trust, at Bajattur in Puttur on Friday.
Addressing the gathering, Shivakumar stressed that culture is the true wealth of a nation and must be continuously strengthened through conscious effort and institutional support. He said that providing consistent opportunities and platforms enables natural talent to emerge and grow.
Culture is nation’s real wealth, says DCM
Shivakumar said that the strength of a society lies not only in economic development but also in its cultural and artistic foundations. According to him, literature and music are not separate from dharma but are deeply connected to ethical living and spiritual progress.
“Culture is the true wealth of a nation and must be strengthened. By consistently providing opportunities, we allow natural talent to flourish. To uphold dharma, we must continuously dedicate ourselves to supporting both literature and music,” he said.
He emphasised that institutions that promote arts and literature create long-term social value by nurturing disciplined, creative and socially responsible individuals.
Coastal traditions and learning praised
The Deputy Chief Minister praised the coastal belt for its strong cultural and educational base. He noted that the region is widely recognised for its educational institutions, literary contributions, and vibrant traditional practices.
He referred to long-standing traditions such as Bhootharadhane, Kambala and Yakshagana, saying they reflect the deep-rooted cultural identity of the region. He also pointed out the strong banking and cooperative presence in the belt and said the area should be encouraged to achieve even greater growth across sectors.
Drawing a cultural analogy, Shivakumar said music and culture grow stronger through diversity and collective participation.
“Music is something vast and profound. When many streams come together, they form a river; when rivers join, they become the sea. In the same way, when many cultures come together, it gives identity to the coastal region,” he said.
Academy’s contribution recognised
Lauding the efforts of the Kanchana Lakshminarayana Music Academy Trust, Shivakumar said the institution has steadily grown over the years and produced several accomplished music practitioners and teachers. He said such growth is never accidental and comes only through sustained dedication and hard work by founders, faculty and trustees.
He noted that students trained at the academy have earned recognition at various levels and locations, bringing name and credibility to the institution. He assured encouragement for organisations that work toward strengthening classical and cultural education.
He also spoke about the broader philosophy of service, saying that nature itself demonstrates selfless contribution. Human life too, he added, should not be centred only on personal gain but also on service to society.
“The human body is not just for the individual but to serve society. Faith is central to this existence. Remember your origins — to forget one’s roots is to forfeit the fruits,” he said.
Pontiff stresses healing power of music and art
Ramachandrapura Mutt pontiff Sri Raghaveshwara Bharati Swami, who blessed the occasion, spoke about the spiritual and emotional value of music and arts in daily life. He said that music has the power to bring calmness, warmth and inner balance.
“Peace is not an external search; it resides within our own body and mind. Through song, sorrow and difficulties can be dissolved. Using one’s voice is a path to both self-happiness and the joy of others,” he said.
He added that even those who do not sing can benefit deeply by listening to music with involvement and devotion. According to him, immersion in music allows a person to momentarily forget stress and emotional burden.
He also highlighted the value of dance and other performing arts, saying surrendering to artistic expression can help individuals overcome pain and mental strain. He encouraged everyone to include some form of art practice or appreciation in their lives.
Dignitaries attend anniversary event
Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari D Veerendra Heggade, Puttur MLA Ashok Kumar Rai and several other dignitaries were present at the programme. Trustees, faculty members, students and cultural patrons attended the launch ceremony and anniversary celebrations.
The newly inaugurated facilities are expected to support expanded training, performances and community dining during cultural events and music programmes organised by the academy.
Speakers at the event collectively underlined that strengthening cultural institutions is essential for preserving heritage while nurturing future generations of artists and scholars.