Bengaluru: Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa on Friday called upon people from different regions living in Karnataka to learn Kannada to strengthen their bonding with the state, its culture and people.
He was addressing a gathering at the Kanteerava Stadium where the 64th Karnataka Rajyotsava, the foundation day of the state, was celebrated in a grand manner.
The Chief Minister said that the history of Kannada language is more than 2,000 years, which was enriched by great litterateurs such as Pampa, Harihara, 12th Century AD social reformer Basavanna and Kuvempu.
"Right from ancient literature to medieval era literature, renaissance, avant-garde, revolutionary literature and Dalit literature contributed significantly to Kannada," he added.
"Kannada has thousands of years of history, we are trying to make Karnataka as a model for the nation. Rajyotsava or Karnataka formation day shouldn't be limit for celebration. People who have come from other states should learn Kannada. Kannadigas should respect them," the CM said.
"Kannadigas should come out of English attraction. We should read Kannada books and regional newspapers so that we can support Kannada. As a mother is important for a child, the mother tongue is important for every Kannadigas," he added.
He pointed out that the state is credited with having eight Jnanpith awardees.
Prior to his address, the Chief Minister hoisted the Kannada flag along with the Indian tri-colour and received a salute from the parade.
It was followed by a march past and cultural performance by students of various schools in the city.
Grand celebrations were organised in various parts of the state including Mysuru, Tumakuru, Mangaluru, Hubballi-Dharwad, Belagavi, Bidar, Raichur, Vijayapura and Kalaburagi.
Also read: Karnataka Rajyotsava: CM Yediyurappa to confer 64 personalities with Rajyotsava Prashasti award
