'Tulunadu culture symbolises equality'

Congress leader Pramodh Madhwaraj said Garodi of Tulunadu culture symbolises equality with its unique set of spiritual laws.

Speaking after inaugurating “Pattheri Kuta-2012,” convention of Garodi devotees here at Marpalli, he said rituals followed in Garodi are different from the rituals in temples.

Spirituality in its true essence is experienced in Garodi where all devotees are treated equal irrespective of their status, caste and religion. The size and structure of Garodi has remained the same since ages and renovation of Garodi with contemporary styles is not permitted, he added.

Folk scholar Gananath Yekkar said Garodi is not only spiritual center, but also a cultural center. There is need to spread the cultural values of Garodi especially among children by organising seminars, workshops and training camps on Garodi. Tulunadu is symbol of harmony and also the treasure of folk values.

The reference of Garodi is made in Malayalam manuscripts. Sarcastically the uniqueness of the Tulunadu culture is diminishing in the flow of globalisation and modernisation, he added.

Stating that study should be taken up on the changing conditions in Tulunadu culture and tradition, scholar said efforts should be made to find ways to uphold the ancient tradition in the rush of modernisation, he added.

Veteran journalist V T Rajashekhar Shetty said women should be given equal importance in the celebrations of ancient traditions as Tulunadu was matriarchal in nature.