Mangaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has described Mangaluru Dasara as a symbol of devotees’ splendour, cultural heritage and social harmony, highlighting the importance of preserving coastal Karnataka’s traditions while promoting regional development.
Speaking at the Mangaluru Dasara celebrations at Shree Gokarnanatheshwara Temple in Kudroli on Thursday, October 15, Shivakumar said that while Mysuru Dasara represented royal splendour, Mangaluru Dasara reflected the devotion of the people.
He said Dasara was more than a festival, describing it as a reflection of Karnataka’s heritage, economic activity and social unity.
Government Committed to Coastal Karnataka’s Development
Shivakumar said the state government was committed to the comprehensive development of the coastal region while respecting its culture, religious heritage, natural resources and the sentiments of its people.
He emphasised that development should go hand in hand with preserving the region’s distinct identity and traditions.
The Chief Minister described Dakshina Kannada and Udupi as a rich centre of cultural knowledge and heritage, saying Karnataka would be incomplete without its coastal region.
He also said the government wanted to work alongside coastal communities to protect their cultural practices and create opportunities for future generations.
Tulu Language Recognition a Significant Step
The Chief Minister highlighted the government’s decision to accord due recognition to the Tulu language, describing it as an important step connected to the region’s history, identity and cultural heritage.
He said representatives and legislators from Tulu Nadu had come together across party lines to seek recognition for the language.
According to Shivakumar, the issue extended beyond language itself, touching on people’s emotions, livelihoods, history and traditions.
He urged people to preserve the language they had learnt from their mothers and pass it on to future generations, stressing that protecting linguistic heritage was a collective responsibility.
Mangaluru Dasara Promotes Harmony and Humanity
Shivakumar described Mangaluru Dasara as a meeting point of joy, harmony, culture and humanity. He said religious and cultural events could strengthen social unity by bringing people together beyond political differences.
He also noted that coastal cultural traditions were being given opportunities for representation during Mysuru Dasara.
Efforts were under way to introduce traditional coastal sports and cultural activities, including Kambala, at the Mysuru celebrations, he said.
The Chief Minister stressed that Karnataka’s cultural diversity was a source of strength and that preserving regional traditions was essential while pursuing social and economic progress.
CM Seeks Blessings at Kudroli Temple
Shivakumar said he had visited the Shree Gokarnanatheshwara Temple not only to attend the Dasara celebrations but also to offer prayers as a devotee.
He recalled visiting the Mahalakshmi Temple in Udupi before offering prayers at Kudroli to Lord Gokarnanatha, Goddess Annapoorneshwari and seeking the blessings of Brahmashree Narayana Guru.
He referred to Narayana Guru’s message of humanity and peace, saying society should follow principles that promote mutual respect and equality.
The Chief Minister also spoke about the importance of providing clean administration, treating people equally and creating opportunities for all sections of society.
Temple Submits Three Key Demands
Representatives of the Kudroli temple submitted three major demands to the Chief Minister during the programme.
These included allotting 15 acres of land for establishing educational institutions in the region, making permanent financial provisions in the state budget for Mangaluru Dasara, and issuing an official directive to observe Brahmashree Narayana Guru Jayanti in schools and colleges across Karnataka.
Shivakumar assured the temple representatives that he would discuss the demands with his Cabinet colleagues and take an appropriate decision in the coming days.
He said he wanted to leave behind lasting contributions and pledged to make efforts to address the concerns raised by the temple.
CM Recalls Janardhana Poojary’s Support
The Chief Minister also recalled the support he received from senior Congress leader and former Union minister B. Janardhana Poojary during an early phase of his political career.
Shivakumar said that after losing the Assembly election in 1985, he received encouragement through a loan mela organised by Poojary in Kanakapura, which helped several thousand people access financial assistance.
He credited the guidance and blessings of senior leaders with helping him progress through local politics and eventually become a minister and Chief Minister.
He concluded by stressing the need to carry forward Narayana Guru’s message and Poojary’s legacy of public service by creating opportunities for young people and fostering equality and harmony.