‘Valmiki’s work reflects humanitarian values’

MLC M P Subramani said sage Valmiki, the author of epic poem Ramayana, is a representative of humanity and his works reflect humanitarian values.

He was speaking at the Maharshi Valmiki Jayanti programme organised by the district administration at Kaveri Kala Kshetra in Madikeri on Wednesday.

Being an ‘Adikavi’, the first-ever poet of the world, Valmiki’s contribution to India has been immense, the MLC said and urged students to study the work of the great sage and follow his ideals.

City Municipal Council president Kaveramma Somanna said that Ramayana teaches us to live a life of solidarity and faith.

Government First Grade College professor Dr K C Dayanand said Ramayana has been interpreted by many poets and in many languages. It is the only work which has been translated into the maximum number of languages. Valmiki is the father of epics, Dayanand said.

Valmiki community leader Mallappa said Ramayana is a gift to the world. One can learn the importance of promises through Lord Rama’s story.

Teachers and supervisors of Ashrama schools and residential schools, postgraduates from the scheduled tribe were felicitated on the occasion.

Prizes were distributed to students who won prizes in various competitions.

Deputy Commissioner P I Sreevidya inaugurated the programme. Additional Deputy Commissioner Praveen Kumar, Assistant Commissioner T Javaregowda, DySP Sundarraj, Zilla Panchayat deputy secretary Guduru Bhimasena, taluk social welfare officer Chikkabasavaiah and ITDP officer Shivkumar were present.