Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)
Udupi, Jan 24: Senior political leader and state BJP president B S Yeddyurappa on Tuesday January 24 inaugurated Tulunada Garadi second mega convention organized by Thingale Pratishtana at Ammanni Ramanna Shetty hall.
Addressing the gathering, B S Yeddyurappa said, "This kind of convention will enhance the richness of Tulu Nadu. One should have beliefs which represent one's personality and culture, but not have superstitious beliefs.
"This convention will strengthen social unity among communities. Elders of all communities have witnessed transformation of this land. They have a huge responsibility of protecting and passing the traditional values of our Tulu Nadu to younger generation.
"The practices of of the Tuluva Empire are still found in coastal region. People believe in ‘Daivas’ (God) and say that a strong bond was created for protecting 242 Garadi houses," he said.
Speaking about Kambala, Yeddyurappa said, "People need not come out on street for saving Kambala. I am confident that the high court will give verdict in favour of Kambala lovers. We will bear the complete responsibility of lifting the ban on Kambala by pressurizing the central government."
Supporting MP Shobha Karandlaje's demand to provide monthly allowance to Garadi workers, he said, "I will extend all the support in providing monthly allowance to the priests and Garadi workers."
Sri Laxmivarateertha Swamiji of Shiroor Math in his blessings said, "Dakshina Kannada and Udupi are among the most peaceful districts in the state. Tourists come here from all over the world seeking peace of mind. Today, people have lost their faith in police force and court so they started believing in Daiva (God). The execution of practicing religions should be in right manner.”
Speaking about Kambala sport, Swamiji said, "We do not usually see death of animal or person in Kambala unlike in Jallikattu where people lost their lives recently. So the state government should allow the practice of Kambala."
Udupi-Chikkamagluru MP Shobha Karandlaje said, "The convener of this convention and members have tried to bring 242 Garadi houses under one roof. All Garadi houses are not rich. The workers of Garadi have collected donations from rich people, but many of the Garadis are about to fall.
"The Garadi houses should be considered one among temples and this has to added in the list of temple maths. These houses should receive grants from the government. People have expectation that if B S Yeddyurappa becomes the chief minister, the Garadi workers, priests, and Pathri (temple dancer) will get monthly allowance," she said.
"Tulu Nadu Daivas are not show pieces. We are not supposed to bring them to streets in processions as puppets. Film songs are not supposed to be played in Garadi Daiva dance. The daivas should not be used in fancy dress contest or any public procession, which was represented in Mysuru, in a cultural programme," she added.
In support of Kambala, Shobha said, "People should get united in protecting Kambala like Tamilians stood for lifting the ban on Jallikattu."
Earlier, Yeddyurappa received a grand welcome from the committee. He was escorted in a colourful procession in an open jeep along with Shiroor Swamiji.
Nittur Mahabala Shetty welcomed the gathering. Gurme Suresh Shetty delivered the key note.
Dr M Mohan Alva, chairman, Alva's Education foundation presided over the programme.
Thingale Vikramarjauna Hegde, convener presented his views about the convention.
MLC Kota Srinivasa Poojary, Naveenchandra D Suvarna, Mangaluru, Krishna Y Shetty,
Krishna Palace, Mumbai, Vakwady Praveen Shetty, Fortune Hotels, Dubai, K M Shetty, V K group of Companies Mumbai and others were present.
Two sessions on 'Worship of Daiva: Integrated thinking', 'A view on worship of Bhootha and future challenges of worship of Bhootha' were held.
Manohar Prasad compered the programme.