During the 70th Karnataka Rajyotsava celebrations in Dharwad, Labour Minister Santosh Lad urged citizens to extend their affection for Kannada language and culture beyond the month of November. He passionately advocated for a year-round commitment, encouraging everyone to speak, write, and conduct daily activities in Kannada, and to share the beauty of the language with non-Kannadigas.
Speaking at the R.N. Shetty District Stadium after hoisting the national flag, Minister Lad called upon the assembled crowd to reaffirm their dedication to both state and national development.
He highlighted that the vibrant red and yellow of the Kannada flag symbolize the state’s strength, bravery, and cultural identity. Kannada, the official language, serves as a mirror reflecting its rich traditions and culture, boasting a magnificent history spanning over 2,500 years and a diverse array of dialects.
Drawing parallels between the unification of Karnataka and the nation’s freedom struggle, the Minister underscored its historical importance. He noted that while the Mysuru State was formed in 1956 by integrating all Kannada-speaking regions, the pivotal unification movement itself originated in Dharwad. Lad paid tribute to visionary leaders like Alur Venkatarao, who first envisioned a united Karnataka, and acknowledged the contributions of R.H. Deshpande, Deputy Channabasappa, Adaragunchi Shankaragouda Patil, and other key figures instrumental in this movement.
Mr. Lad emphasized the profound impact of Kannada’s literary giants, poets, writers, and musicians. He stated that their universally acclaimed works have been the bedrock for preserving and promoting the language, culture, and heritage, making it crucial to honor their invaluable contributions.
The Minister also took the opportunity to highlight the state government’s various welfare programs, especially the successful ‘guarantee schemes,’ which he asserted have significantly improved the lives of ordinary citizens.
Furthermore, Mr. Lad declared Karnataka Rajyotsava as a moment to reaffirm the collective commitment to building a progressive ‘New Karnataka’ – a state that honors its rich heritage while advancing beyond distinctions of language, caste, and religion.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including MLC F.H. Jakkappanavar, Chairman of Karnataka Bal Vikas Academy Sangamesh Bableshwar, Dharwad Deputy Commissioner Divya Prabhu G.R.J., ZP CEO Bhuvanesh Patil, Superintendent of Police Gunjan Arya, and Police Commissioner N. Shashikumar.
Earlier in the day, the Minister reviewed the parade and was accorded a guard of honor by contingents from the police, armed police, fire brigade, NCC volunteers, and students from various schools and colleges.
The festivities also featured captivating cultural performances by numerous students from local schools and hostels. However, the celebrations were briefly interrupted by a power outage, reportedly due to technical issues, prompting the Deputy Commissioner to announce an inquiry and punitive action against those responsible.