News n Visuals : Anand Kumar Barkur and Vishwas, Barkur
The Rotary Club of Barkur hosted a distinctive celebration of World Kundapura Kannada Day with their "Ashadiyange Ondu Dina" (One Day for Ashadhi) program at the Rotary Bhavan in Barkur. The event showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Kundapura region and honored local talents across various fields.
The venue was beautifully adorned with traditional decorations, including Siri ole (tender coconut leaves) and taliru torana (festive garlands), creating an enchanting atmosphere that reflected the essence of Kundapura culture. The program commenced with the lighting of a ceremonial lamp and the symbolic blossoming of a coconut flower bud, signifying new beginnings and prosperity.
A highlight of the event was the exquisite rangavalli (traditional floor art) created by renowned local artist Vishala Mahesh Poojari. The intricate design featured the logo of Kundapura Kannada, drawing admiration from all attendees. Adjacent to this masterpiece was a captivating display of antique household items and artifacts from the personal collection of Mr. Kudli Shri Sudarshan Udupa, offering a glimpse into the region's rich past.
The chief guest for the occasion was Mr. R. A. Samaga, who inaugurated the event. Other dignitaries present included Mr. Manu Handadi, known as the ambassador of Kunda Kannada, Mr. Shantaram Shetty (President of Barkur Gram Panchayat), Mr. Prakash Shetty (President of Yadtadi Gram Panchayat), Mr. Alwin Andrade (Former President of Rotary Brahmavar), Mr. Rajaram Shetty (Owner of Ashraya Hotel), Mr. Satish Poojari Bennekudru (Proprietor of Global Coir Industries, Bennekudru), Mr. Ganesh Shetty B (President of Rotary Club Barkur), and Mr. H Ajit Kumar Shetty (Secretary of Rotary Club Barkur).
A special feature of the program was the recognition of local heroes who have been serving the community in various capacities. Those honored included:
- The MESCOM staff of Barkur for their tireless service during monsoon seasons
- Manjunath Poojari of the Shaurya team
- Santosh Panar, a Daiva Nartaka (traditional ritualistic dancer)
- Sandeep Amin Kuradi, a regular blood donor
- Vishala Mahesh Poojari, the renowned rangavalli artist and skilled flower arranger
Additionally, special recognition was given to Mr. Manu Handadi for his contributions to Kunda Kannada literature, Mr. Subramanya S. Poojari, President of Swagat Multi-purpose Cooperative Society, and Mr. Sudarshan Udupa Kudli for preserving cultural artifacts.
The event also featured entertaining games and competitions for Rotary members, children, and the public, organized under the leadership of Ro. Alvin Andrade. Winners were awarded attractive prizes, adding to the festive spirit of the day.
Musical performances by famous singer Rajesh Shanbhog from Barkur, along with Manjunath Poojari, Poornima S Poojari, and Subramanya Poojari, enthralled the audience with Kunda Kannada songs and nostalgic melodies.
Ro. Satish S. Amin skillfully emceed the program in Kunda Kannada dialect, while Secretary H. Ajit Kumar Shetty delivered the vote of thanks.
The celebration concluded with a special feast featuring a variety of healthy traditional dishes typical of the Ashadha month, allowing attendees to savor the local cuisine.
This unique celebration of World Kundapura Kannada Day not only highlighted the linguistic and cultural richness of the region but also strengthened community bonds by recognizing local talents and preserving traditions. The Rotary Club of Barkur's initiative serves as a model for cultural preservation and community engagement in the modern era.
