Karnataka - Bangalore   

Students debate India's future

Staff Reporter

Youth told to work towards realising vision of President Abdul Kalam

DISCUSSING VISION OF INDIA: Bangalore University Vice-Chancellor M.S. Thimmappa (right) having a word with the former Chief Justice of India M.N. Venkatachalaiah (left) and the former Chairman of ISRO K. Kasturirangan at the `Sadbhavana India-06 Drea m India,' in Bangalore on Sunday. — Photo: V.Sreenivasa Murthy

BANGALORE: Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy did not arrive, but that did not dampen the spirits at the all-day "Dream India: Sadbhavana India" celebrations at Kanteerava Indoor Stadium on Sunday.

All day, students from several city colleges talked, sang and debated the enduring idea of India, and displayed their cultural awareness and comfort levels with many things totally Indian.

The event was organised by Bangalore University, the Department of Youth Services and Sports, the Bangalore University Principals' Association, and Pacer Foundation.

Speaking at the inaugural session, the former Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation K. Kasturirangan urged the youth to make the most of opportunities in technology and education to realise the vision of President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam of India as a knowledge society.

Talking about modern science and ancient India's knowledge of many "discoveries and inventions that have even transcended Space," Dr. Kasturirangan said every milestone in India's scientific and technological development would impact deeply on its culture.

The former Chief Justice of India M.N. Venkatachalaiah said the younger generation must prepare to make great strides in building a prosperous nation.

In the evening, it was Director of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Mathoor Krishnamoorthy's turn to enthral the audience of mostly undergraduate students with several anecdotes and experiences that demonstrate the universal appeal of Hinduism, Indian culture and heritage.

He spoke of how Queen Elizabeth was enchanted with the prayers recited by the Bhavan centre in London at a multi-religious prayer session, and demanded to know the meaning. And when he was summoned into the Royal presence, his "namaste" disarmed the Queen, who was about to remove her glove and offer her hand. When he explained the significance of namaste, she was impressed, he said.

Breaking into Sanskrit and reciting shlokas and verses effortlessly, Dr. Krishnamurthy said young Indians must remain connected to their roots, their heritage, language and culture.

Mr. Kumaraswamy, who was unable to attend the programme, sent his message. "I am committed to implementing the vision of the President for India's progress, and I have already had talks with officials on how to begin implementing it to give easy access to education and opportunity in all fields," he said.

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