-News n Visuals : Bandimatha Shivaram Acharya
In a delightful convergence of youthful creativity and literary exuberance, the 20th Annual Children's Literature Symposium, known Makkala Sahithya Sammelana, unfolded its chapters on a sunlit Saturday at the Sri Vani Primary School in the heart of Nadoor, within the picturesque Udupi district. The event, organized by Shantivana Trust (R) Dharmasthala, the Education Department of Udupi District, Shri Ramakrishna Ashram Belgavi and Mangaluru, www.barkuronline.com in association with Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre Barkur, Brahmavar Galimane Nadur, and the Late Shivaram Shetty Birth Centenary Committee, was graced by the esteemed presence of poet and luminary Jayanth Kaikini, not only marked a celebration of words but also underscored the pivotal role of cultivating literary passion from the formative years.
The ceremonial inauguration saw the charismatic 10th-grade student, Yashaswini A. Barkur, assuming the role of the President and steering the proceedings with poise. The highlight of the symposium was the unveiling of a collection of eloquent, self-composed poems by the talented children, Alwyn Andrade, a famed theatre personality, adding a touch of youthful vibrancy to the literary soiree. Jayanth Kaikini, in his inaugural address, eloquently emphasized the profound importance of instilling a literary disposition in young minds, echoing the sentiment that such endeavors hold the potential to shape the future of language preservation.
Dr. Prashant Shetty, a luminary honored with the prestigious Karnataka State Rajyothsava Award, and Narendra Kumar Kota, joined by a distinguished cohort of literary stalwarts, received accolades for their enduring contributions to literature and unwavering commitment to the Children's Literature Symposium spanning two decades.
The organizing committee, led by the dynamic Ram Bhatt Sajangadde, extended heartfelt gratitude to the notable figures in attendance, including B. Seetharam Tolladitthaya, IFCO Shabeer Hussain, B. Srinivasa Shettigar, Bhoja Hegde, and Rajaram Shetty, whose collective presence added an enriching layer to the symposium.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the evening session unfolded with intellectual fervor. Dr. Pandu Shetty, all the way from Canada, captivated the audience with an insightful lecture, while the illustrious Jayanth Kaikini led a thought-provoking panel discussion. The symposium further blossomed into a captivating poetry session, where young talents showcased their lyrical prowess, demonstrating that the future of Kannada literature is indeed in capable hands.
The grand finale, marked by a resounding participation of 300 students and dedicated teachers from 15 schools across the district, underscored the unwavering support for Kannada literature. The symposium, in its conclusion, left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness, fostering a shared commitment to nourish and sustain the flame of literary passion among the youth, ensuring that the rich tapestry of language and culture continues to thrive in the years to come.