'Don't possess egotism over Kannada'

However, Bopaiah said one should not possess egotism over Kannada since learning English is also inevitable.

He was delivering the introductory address at the 18th State-level Chutuku Sahitya Sammelana at Arameri Kalancheri Mutt in Virajpet on Saturday.

“Including Panje Mangesharao, many poets described Kodagu as a land of soldiers and valiants, but the present condition is different. The Kodavas who were appreciated as those who tamed the tigers, are now being haunted by the tigers themselves. The elephant menace is beyond explanation. The life is becoming miserable,” he regretted.

“We are in a situation that has forced us to introspect more about Kannada language and culture. The danger is so imminent that the folk arts are on the verge of decay.

However, it is a matter of pride that Kodagu still preserved some of its traditional genres like Balopat, Dudipat etc,” Bopaiah said.

He suggested that one should not forget his native place and culture despite the position he gets in the society. He also called for controlling the illegalities taking place in the name of Kannada.

Souvenir

Arameri Kalancheri Mutt seer Shanthamallikarjuna Swamiji released a souvenir ‘Chutuku Cauvery’ on the occasion.

Procession

Prior to this, the event was flagged off by Kodava actor Jenith Ayyappa by chopping the banana trunks planted along the stretch from Virajpet-Madikeri road to Arameri Kalancheri Mutt. The Sammelana president Dr Sa Shi Marulaiah and his wife Veena Marulaiah were taken in a colourful procession.

Special occasion

Marulaiah couple who completed 50 years of married life on Saturday, exchanged garlands on the occasion.