Books, solar lamps to replace flowers as gifts

A circular issued by RDPR has directed Zilla/Taluk and Gram Panchayat officials to present Kannada books to guests instead of the age old tradition of handing over bouquets and garlands.

The circular states that the flowers are expensive and lead to wastage of public money. The guests cannot preserve the bouquets permanently. Presenting Kannada books that depict the rich culture, heritage and rural life of the State will promote the development of Kannada language on one hand and will also help people to inculcate good reading habits. The circular also demands that books presented should be free of controversies and has asked the ZP CEO to approach public libraries and get a list of books suitable for distribution.

In another attempt to safeguard nonrenewable resources of energy, the circular directs officials to present solar lamps to guests at functions held in villages.

Speaking to Deccan Herald, Zilla Panchayat CEO Dr K N Vijayprakash said that the RDPR has issued a futurist decision.

“Books help in personal development and this initiative is a wonderful way in promoting the State’s culture. The solar lamps encourage usage of non conventional energy and are a good example in saving electricity,” he says and adds that the decision is welcomed by the ZP and steps are already taken for its implementation. “The books will be ordered immediately after the list is prepared,” he adds.

“Encouraging readership of Kannada books will motivate more people to take up writing. Giving flowers is our tradition. Instead of giving flower bouquets, it would be ideal to give books accompanied with a single flower,” says DK District Kannada Sahitya Parishat President Pradeep Kumar Kalkura.

However, one of the florist from Kadri Market says, “Flowers is the only way we make our living. Majority of our profit is made during functions and weddings. Government should also think about us”.