64th Karnataka Rajyotsava

It was on the 1st of November 1956 that the land of the Kannidigas was carved out to include all the Kannada language-speaking regions of south India. Today the contribution of Karnataka’s poets, artists, writers, scientists and singers in varied languages, dialects, dance and art forms makes one proud to be part of this great land. Our villages boast the finest produce and our towns claim to have the best industries and our cities are globally recognized for information technology.

Celebrating this amalgam of the old and new, the students of SJBHS showcased a spectacular display of the varied folk art and a presentation of the culture and tradition of the State. The red and gold of the Karnataka flag decorated the school campus in a show of pride and respect for the Motherland.

The chief guest for the occasion was Rev Fr. Melvin Lobo SJ, Principal of St. Joseph’s PU College and the guest of honour was Ms Renuka, Sub Inspector of Cubbon Park Police Station, Bengaluru.

The programme began with the hoisting of the Karnataka flag, a prayer and the lighting of the lamp. Through song and dance, the students and teachers made Karnataka Rajyotsava a celebration.

Fr. Melvin, in his address, told the gathering that learning Kannada and conversing in the same is a matter of pride for him. He encouraged the students to know the nuances of the language of the State that they have adopted but cautioned them against mixing the languages.

The magnificent King Krishnadevaraya, the social reformer Basaveshwara, the great Kannada poet Kuttappa, Rayanna - the army commander of Rani Chennamma’s forces, Kempegowda - the founder of Bangalore City and the humble Obavva shared the stage as the students re-created the glory and valour of these towering personalities of Karnataka. The show stopper was the ramp walk of the traditional dress styles favoured in different parts of Karnataka. Teachers showcased some of the traditional attire from different States and how they have merged with the present day Karnataka.

The programme was an eye opener to the glorious past and the splendid present of the State of Karnataka.