The Hindu : Karnataka News : ‘Economic prosperity essential for proliferation of culture’

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Sunday, Feb 17, 2008
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Karnataka

Karnataka

‘Economic prosperity essential for proliferation of culture’

Staff Correspondent

B.K. Chandrashekar for developing Lakkundi as a tourist destination

‘Lakkundi Kaleya Bale’ book written by
H.K. Haridasa released
Colourful jatha taken out as part of the utsav

Focus on culture: Chairman of the Legislative Council B.K. Chandrashekar inaugurating the two-day Lakkundi Utsav on Saturday. The former Minister H.K. Patil, singer Puttaraj Gawai, Gadag Deputy Commissioner N. Sriraman and the former MLA S.S. Patil are seen.

LAKKUNDI (GADAG DISTRICT): Chairman of the Legislative Council B.K. Chandrashekar has underscored the need for developing Lakkundi as a tourist destination and taking steps to improve the economic condition of the people of the region.

He was inaugurating the two-day Lakkundi Utsav at the specially erected Dana Chintamani Attimabbe Vedike with Kashi Vishwanath Temple in the background, at Lakkundi in Gadag taluk on Saturday.

Prof. Chandrashekar said economic prosperity was essential for proliferation of culture. He said there was a need for chalking out programmes keeping in mind these aspects.

Communal harmony

Apart from cultural heritage and diversity enshrined in the temple structures, Lakkundi presented a picture of communal harmony. While showcasing them to the world was essential, care should also be taken to raise the living standards of the people of the village and surrounding areas, he said.

Referring to the recent developments in Hubli and surrounding areas about the activities of persons allegedly having links with banned organisations, he appealed to the media not to exaggerate the issue as it would create a sense of fear and anxiety among the public.

He said the example of Lakkundi should be highlighted for spreading the message of communal harmony.

The programme began with “mangala ninada” by Puttaraja Gawai who sang a vachana (his composition).

Religious heads Maria Joseph, K.I. Sheikh and Basavaraj Deshikendra Swamiji delivered messages.

Former Minister H.K. Patil released the book “Lakkundi Kaleya Bale” written by H.K. Haridasa.

Principal Secretary, Department of Kannada and Culture, I.M. Vittala Murthy said since it was difficult to take up restoration and preservation of ancient monuments by the Government alone, steps were being taken to set up “Heritage Clubs” in all the districts of the State to involve students in such works.

Former MP I.G. Sanadi, former MLA S.S. Patil, Gadag Zilla Panchayat president Padmavati Telkar, Deputy Commissioner N. Sriraman and Superintendent of Police D. Roopa were among those present.

Earlier a colourful jatha was taken out as part of the utsav.

More than 50 folk troupes from various parts of the district and neighbouring districts enthralled the onlookers by their exuberant performances.

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