Buddha, Basavanna, Gandhi, Ambedkar were unique as they didn't confine to a particular section of society and belonged to all sections through their reformistm views, said former MLC K V Subba Reddy.

He was speaking after inaugurating the first Vachana Sahitya Conference organised jointly by Rajarajeshwari Kannada Kala Sangha and taluk Veerashaiva Kshemabhivruddhi Association in the city on Sunday.

He criticised the present situation of deterring the peace and called for the intellectuals to strive for peace in the society.

Former Minister Chowda Reddy who presided over the function expressed his serious concern over lack of interest among the people in art, literature and cultures of our land which is so rich in heritage.  e also denied any malpractices in the trust of Ganesh temple which is run under his leadership.

‘Deepika Chintamani’ written by Timmaiah was released at the function by Food and Civil department Officer M C Shrinivasaiah. Litterateur Mohan Kumar spoke on Timaiah’s book.

Vachana Sahitya Academy president Ellegowda Besagarahalli, Folk expert Professor D Lingaiah, Dr S Vidyashankar spoke on the occasion. Vachana Sahitya Vaibhava Goshti was presided over by Professor T R Mahadevaiah.

Dr Chikka Hejjaji Mahadev, Rani Govindaraju and Rudresh Adarangi put forth their views. Poet’s meet was also held in the afternoon. Taluk Panchayat president Chinnappa participated.  Ashwath of Kannada Sangha welcomed. Mohammad Khasim compered the programme.