Hundreds of students took part in the district-level art festival held on Tuesday. The event was organized in collaboration with the district administration, Zilla Panchayat, Kannada and Culture Department, and several other departments.
The festival featured a variety of events including classical dance, folk songs, painting, and Hindustani classical music. Students participated enthusiastically across all categories.
Held at Gandhi Bhavan in the city, the festival included group competitions under three sections – Child Talent, Teenage Talent, and Young Talent.
Child Talent: Classical dance, folk songs, painting, Carnatic/Hindustani classical music, Carnatic/Hindustani instrumental music, and light music.
Teenage Talent: Painting, Carnatic/Hindustani music, classical dance, folk songs, Carnatic/Hindustani instrumental music, and light music.
Young Talent: Painting, Carnatic/Hindustani classical music, “My Favorite Writer’s Greeting,” classical dance, group drama competition, Carnatic/Hindustani instrumental music, light music, and other performances.
Assistant Commissioner Nitin Chakki, speaking at the inauguration, said the Kala Pratibotsava was organized to identify and encourage the artistic skills of children and youth, and to help them refine their talents.
He emphasized that the event aims to boost the self-confidence of participants and motivate them to pursue artistic growth. “Artistic talent contributes to the development of society, science, technology, and sports,” he said. He added that the Kala Pratibotsava serves as a platform for nurturing various art forms among students.
Chakki praised the children of Kodagu district for their extraordinary abilities, stating that they bring pride to the district through their performances. “Winning or losing is not important. What matters is the courage to participate and perform,” he said, expressing hope that many students from Kodagu will shine at the state and national levels.
G. Ananthashayana, President of the Kodagu Janapada Parishad District Unit, urged students to set clear goals and make good use of opportunities. “Everyone has a unique talent, and such festivals provide a platform to showcase them. Students should move forward with confidence,” he said.
Deputy Director of the Pre-University Education Department, Chidananda Kumar, noted that the event offers an excellent opportunity for students to display their artistic potential.
Kannada SahityaParishad Secretary Munir Ahmed highlighted the importance of active participation in talent festivals.
R. Bindu from the School Education Department advised students to approach competitions with a balanced attitude – “If you win, you earn an award; if you lose, you gain experience”.
Kumar, Assistant Director of the Kannada and Culture Department, delivered the welcome address. B. C. Shankaraiah sang the national anthem. Anita narrated the program, and ManajurManjunath proposed the vote of thanks.
Students, scholars, and members of the public attended the event.
