Mangaluru Dasara is people’s Dasara in the real sense, said Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy.
Speaking after inaugurating ‘Mangaluru Dasara 2018’ at Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatha Temple here, on Sunday, he said that the call given by Brahmashri Narayanaguru “One caste, one religion and one God” was brought into reality at the temple. “If Mysuru Dasara is known for its royal splendour, Mangaluru Dasara reflects the essence of republic.”
Stating that he is proud and privileged to inaugurate Mangaluru Dasara 2018, Kumaraswamy said being religious person, he was fortunate to be part of Mangaluru Dasara.
“The government has been receiving demands from various districts seeking grants for Dasara celebrations. But no such demand is placed by Mangaluru Dasara committee. Celebrating Dasara in a grand way, that too without expecting government funds, is something commendable,” he said.
The chief minister lauded former Union Minister B Janardan Poojary’s role in initiating Mangaluru Dasara and said that Poojary is a clean politician he has ever come across.
As the state is going through a troublesome period in the wake of man -made and natural disasters, Kumaraswamy said he has prayed to Lord Gokarnanatha to protect the state and to bless the people with prosperity.
Stating that it was necessary for people from all communities to live in brotherhood and solidarity, he said that the government would provide compensation to the flood-affected people.
Kumaraswamy launched a mobile application on Kudroli temple on the occasion.
Earlier, he offered prayers to Lord Gokarnanatha and to Goddess Sharada and Navadurgas consecrated on the temple premises.
Artist Shabari Ganiga, who drew H D Kumaraswamy’s portrait using glow technique during the formal function, received appreciation from the chief minister and others for the artwork
Former Union Minister B Janardana Poojary presided over the programme.