Mysuru Sangeetha Sugandha festival begins
2 min read
Mysuru: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman praised the contributions of Vachana and Bhakti Sahitya to Karnataka and Kannada culture, noting how these traditions have elevated Kannada literature and music to global prominence.
Speaking on Friday after inaugurating the three-day Mysuru Sangeetha Sugandha music festival at the Karnataka State Open University Convocation Hall, Nirmala Sitharaman emphasised the profound impact of Bhakti Sahitya on the Kannada language, saying it has enriched its authenticity amid India’s diversity.
She referred to Purandara Dasa’s famous keertana, “Raagi Tandeera” (Finger Millet), reciting a few lines and explaining its depth and cultural importance.
“Mysuru holds immense cultural significance,” she remarked, adding, “Just as Thiruvarur in Tamil Nadu is believed to offer moksha to those born there, Mysuru is equally esteemed.”
She highlighted that Mysuru has produced numerous stalwarts in music and culture, contributing richly to Karnataka’s heritage.
Sitharaman proposed that the State Government make Mysuru Sangeetha Sugandha an annual event, to be celebrated during Kannada Rajyotsava month on the first weekend after November 1.
She suggested expanding it beyond Mysuru to other parts of Karnataka to showcase the state’s musical heritage as a tourism initiative, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi” (development with heritage), aimed at empowering India both culturally and economically by valuing every language and tradition.
Nirmala Sitharaman also acknowledged the Mysuru Wadiyar’s contributions to music, particularly Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, who composed several songs.
She noted that performer Sukanya Prabhakar would render some of these compositions, celebrating Mysuru’s cultural richness.
She further highlighted the Union government’s support for Karnataka’s heritage through initiatives like the PRASAD scheme for developing Sri Chamundeshwari Temple as a pilgrimage center, the PM Swadesh Darshan 2.0 programme and UNESCO’s recognition of Somanathapura Keshava Temple as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Union Minister of State for Tourism, Suresh Gopi, also spoke at the event, commending Mysuru musicians and advocating for similar cultural events nationwide to showcase India’s rich heritage.
District-in-Charge Minister H.C. Mahadevappa praised the Union government’s efforts in promoting Mysuru’s cultural legacy through the Ministry of Tourism.
The event was also attended by MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar and MLA T S Srivatsa, who presided over the ceremony.
-Team Mysoorunews
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