MLA Dr. Mantar Gowda said that social reformers such as Madiwala Machidevara, who worked tirelessly to build an egalitarian society, should be remembered every day.
He was speaking after presiding over the MadiwalaMachidevara Jayanti programme held at Gandhi Bhavan in the city, organised jointly by the District Administration, Zilla Panchayat, and the Kannada and Culture Department.
Dr. Mantar Gowda said that the principles and ideals of MadiwalaMachidevara remain highly relevant in today’s society. He recalled that several reformers, including Basavadi Sharanas, worked relentlessly for social equality during the 12th century and stressed that their contributions must always be remembered.
Highlighting government initiatives, he said that the Karnataka Madiwala Machideva Development Corporation offers several schemes such as the Educational School Scheme, Ganga Kalyana, Swavalambi Sarathi (Taxi) Scheme, Self-Employment Loan Scheme and Loan Scheme for Higher Studies in Foreign Universities. He urged eligible beneficiaries to make use of these schemes to achieve social and economic progress.
Retired teacher B.C. Shankaraiah, speaking on the occasion, said that MadiwalaMachidevara initiated a social revolution in the 12th century. Along with the BasavadiSharanas, he respected labour and profession and spread the message of equality in society.
He said that Madiwala Machidevara’s ideology and scientific outlook were remarkable, and that his vachanas were profound and meaningful. Machidevara played a significant role in preserving vachana literature and worked tirelessly to eradicate social inequality.
“MadiwalaMachidevara taught that life gains meaning when clothes are kept clean,” Shankaraiah said. He further explained that during the 12th century, society was plagued by exploitation of the weak, caste discrimination, untouchability, superstition, and denial of education and opportunities. Women, labourers, the poor and Dalits suffered immensely during this period. Basava-Machideva and other Sharanas led a social revolution to ensure equal rights and dignified livelihoods for all, and among them, MadiwalaMachidevara stands out as one of the most luminous figures.
P.G. Sukumar, President of the Madiwala Development Association, also spoke. Tahsildar Sridhara, Assistant Director of the Kannada and Culture DepartÂ
