Govt's move on Thiruvalluvar statue hailed

 Speaking on the occasion of Prof Gokak's birth anniversary celebration organised by the Karnataka Sahitya Academy at Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan, he said, nobody should oppose it as many non-Kannadiga writers have contributed to enrich Kannada Literature. "It is meaningless to oppose installation of Thiruvalluvar statue", he said.

He further added that he will be writing a letter to the Chief Minister regarding the issue. 'Though I do not support BJP Government, I will stand by them on this issue,' he added.

Speaking about Gokak he said, Prof Gokak always maintained his stature while writing his books, he expressed deep concern for girl child and was against any ritual which caused pain to women.

Inaugurating the programme Rastrakavi Dr G S Shivarudrappa said that Gokak has described the word "Vishwa Manava" even before Kuvempu.

He further said that Gokak had accepted Da Ra Bendre and his mentor; he was not only a poet but also a prose writer.  Shivarudrappa expressed his appreciation on Gokak works in Kannada and English language.

Translated version of the book "The Agony and Glory" and Music CD of Gokak's lyrical work was released on the occasion.

Meanwhile, KPCC President R V Deshpande said his party will condemn any efforts to politicise the decision to install a statue of Tamil saint-poet Thiruvalluvar in Bangalore and Kannada saint-poet Sarvajna’s statue in Chennai.

In a release, he said installing of statues will ensure better relationship between the two States. The event of unveiling statues should be celebrated as a cultural festival by both States, he stated.

Rajya Sabha member M Rama Jois,   writer Prof L S Sheshagiri Rao, Kannada and Culture Department Director Manu Baligar, Kannada Sahitya Academy President Prof M H Krishiah, Anil Gokak, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan President N Ramauja were present on the occasion.