A.S. Ponnanna, MLA from Virajpet and Legal Advisor to the Chief Minister, reiterated Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s message that history cannot be shaped by forgetting the past. He was speaking after inaugurating the naming ceremony of the Makeri-Biligeri-Arvatthoklu link road after freedom fighter late Pujari Ramappa. He said Kodagu has produced many patriots who sacrificed their lives for India’s freedom, and naming the road after Pujari Ramappa was a fitting tribute.
He appreciated the efforts behind the initiative and congratulated the families of priests from Arvatthoklu, Makeri and Biligeri. He observed that as a border district, Kodagu’s freedom fighters had often been overlooked by historians and suggested organising programmes to introduce these personalities to the younger generation.
In his opening remarks, Rajiv Gandhi Panchayat Raj Organisation District President Thennira Maina described the life of Pujari Ramappa as one of sacrifice, Gandhian ideals and unwavering patriotism. He expressed gratitude to MLA Ponnanna for preserving Ramappa’s legacy.
Trust President Pujari Belyappa stated that the trust had worked for 29 years to achieve this goal and thanked MLA Ponnanna for his wholehearted support. Writer Pujari Krupa Devaraj introduced the life and contributions of the freedom fighter.
MLA A.S. Ponnanna, Sarvodaya Samiti President Ambekal Kushalappa, Thennira Maina and Gram Panchayat President Pujari Rakshit were felicitated. Former Speaker K.G. Bopaiah, who attended briefly, was also honoured.
Several dignitaries, villagers and members of Pujari’s family participated. The programme concluded with prayers and a vote of thanks.
