Varthur 'lightens' the mood on a hot day

Gaffes unlimited

He had to speak on the developmental projects and problems in the district, but the mistakes he made showed him in poor light, although the audience had a good laugh at his cost.

Varthur spoke at the function that followed the flag-hoisting ceremony at the Sir M Visvesvaraya Stadium.

Within a few minutes, he called freedom fighter Queen Abbakka ‘Queen Hakkabukka’. The rate of interest for loans given to farmers changed from one per cent to three per cent.

Government activity for development of the district was mispronounced as ‘mis-activity’; the ‘Chitravati’ reservoir was renamed ‘Chatravati’ reservoir; the ‘distribution’ of bicycles to students became ‘widening’.

The minister, however, steered clear of the anti-social elements wrecking havoc in the State, especially in the district, although the fact was mentioned in the readymade speech.

He did not even refer to the recent genocide at Barlahalli and Yerrakote in Chintamani taluk.

Formal programme

The Independence Day programme was organised at the Sir M Visvesvaraya Stadium in the City on Monday morning. The cultural programmes post flag-hoisting and formal parades attracted the attention of the audience.

Minister Varthur Prakash hoisted the flag in the Stadium. He then acknowledged the guard of honour presented by students, policemen and members of choirs.

The Department for Public Education and Department for Kannada and Culture jointly organised the cultural programmes that included presentations by students of various schools and folk artistes.

Athlete Manchanabale K Srinivas, musician from Gudibande Nanjundappa and farmer from Chintamani Subbareddy were felicitated for achievements in their respective fields.
The best performers in the guard of honour were also awarded.