The Aatidonji Dina cultural programme was organised at Akshaya Bhavan, Vittal, under the joint auspices of the Karnataka Arebhashe Samskruthi and Sahitya Academy, Vittal Gowda (Vokkaligara) Sangha, Gowda Women’s Unit, and the Gowda Yuva Vedike. The programme was presided over by Sadananda Mavaji, President of the Karnataka Arebhashe Samskruthi and Sahitya Academy. Addressing the gathering, he appreciated the affection and respect shown by the people of Vittal towards the Arebhashe language and culture. He also congratulated the organisers for conducting the programme in a well-organised and meaningful manner.
Soumya Sukumar, Immediate Past President of the Mangaluru Vokkaligara Seva Sangha, speaking on the occasion, said that such programmes are the need of the hour for preserving cultural identity and creating awareness among the younger generation. Aati is Not Merely a Celebration but a Living Memory of History.
Delivering the keynote address, Sitaram Kevala, retired Principal and JC National Trainer, said that the observance of Aati is significant from the perspective of preserving historical and cultural consciousness.
He observed that Aati is not merely a celebration but a reminder of the lifestyle and traditions of earlier generations. He stressed that it is the responsibility of the present generation to educate younger people about the food habits, customs, rituals, and modes of worship that were practised during that period.
On the occasion, Amita Krishna Kodipadiguthu, President of the Vittal Women’s Unit, was felicitated by the Academy in recognition of her contributions.
The programme featured Arebhashe poetry recitations, the singing of Sobane folk songs, literary singing competitions for women based on traditional wedding songs, cultural dances, and folk performances, all of which received an enthusiastic response from the audience. A major attraction of the event was the serving of around 45 varieties of traditional Aati cuisine to all the participants. The speciality of the feast was that every dish had been prepared at home and brought by members of the association, reflecting the rich culinary heritage associated with the Aati season.
More than 20 couples, representing different age groups, enthusiastically participated in the specially organised Couples’ Walking and Dancing Competition, adding to the festive spirit of the programme.
Among those present on the dais were Vokkaligara Sangha President Kushalappa Gowda Kankal, Honorary President Giriyappa Gowda Shanthila, Gowda Yuva Vedike President Dinesh Modtel, Academy Member Chandravathi Baddadka, and several other dignitaries. Academy Member and Convener Latha Prasad Kudpaje welcomed the gathering and delivered the introductory address. Amita Krishna Kudippadiguttu, President of the Vittal Gowda Women’s Unit, proposed the vote of thanks.
The programme was compered by Premalatha Hadilu, Premalatha Gadadakodi, Pramila Kanichar, Vishwanath Kulal, and Tanush Girinivas, who ensured the smooth conduct of the event.
