Malnad people are sweethearts; they are beautiful in mind and heart: that was how emerging Kannada cine actor Diganth expressed his admiration towards Malnadigas.

As a special invitee at the 6th annual day celebrations of Malnad Youth Association at Shanthi Nilaya here on Sunday, he said he felt proud to be a Malnad resident. “Malnadigas are broad-minded. Their attitude is liberal and dignified,” he said, adding that Malnad region is nothing but the heaven of Karnataka.

Recalling certain scenes from his recent movie ‘Gaalipata’, Mr Diganth said he felt proud of the enchanting beauty of the region. “Many of my friends do not know I am a Malnadiga. People speak to me either in Hindi or English.

But I proudly admit that I am from Malnad area, Teerthahalli. My friends from other regions appreciated the beauty of Malnad after watching the scenic locations in Gaalipata,” he said in fluent Kannada.

He expressed his pleasure of the endeavour of Malnad students studying in Mangalore in establishing an association of their own, and said he wanted to be an active member of the association too. Mr Diganth was traditionally honoured with Mysore peta, shawl and mementos. Owing to the demand of the audience he sang a few lines of a song from Gaalipata.1

Speaking on the occasion, DK Zilla Panchayat President K P Sucharitha Shetty said Malnadigas had creative personality and advised the youth to develop pro-social attitudes.

Academician Imanuel Bosco appealed the students to inculcate constructive thoughts and to respect their parents. Entrepreneur B A Moideen Bava observed that unemployment among youth was the main cause for Naxalism. He expressed his apprehension over increasing terrorism. INTUC President Rakesh Malli said gaining good friends was a matter of luck and pleasure.

Association President Amith Shetty was present. Achievers and new office bearers were honoured. Entertainment programmes followed.