A four-hour celebration of rare and melodious Kannada songs captivated a packed audience of art lovers in Madikeri, drawing applause and admiration for the timeless lyrics and music of Kannada’s rich musical heritage.
The UdayavaleNamma Cheluva Kannada Nadu Geetagayana programme, organised by the Kodagu Journalists’ Association and Mulia Jewellers at the Satkar Hall, Red Bricks, featured 33 songs performed by 53 artistes from across Kodagu district.
Mulia Gold Jewellery President Keshav Prasad Mulia said that just as every Indian is an Indian, every resident of Karnataka is a Kannadiga. Even as Bengaluru witnesses campaigns to protect Kannada, it is heartening to see smaller towns like Madikeri celebrating the language with enthusiasm, he noted. He praised the artistes for their commitment, adding that presenting rare Kannada songs was a matter of pride.
Kodagu Journalists’ Association President Anil H.T. said the event marked the 100th anniversary of the classic Kannada song Udayavagale Namma Cheluva Kannada Nadu, written by Huilagol Narayan Rao. He said a pilot group of 53 artistes was selected for this edition, with plans to involve more artistes in the future. The Association, he added, is committed to promoting cultural values and building a healthy and vibrant society.
Senior artiste G. Chidvilas, in his introductory address, said the event disproved the assumption that Kodagu lacks enthusiasm for literary and cultural programmes. He appreciated the impressive turnout of Kannada enthusiasts.
Renowned artistes including Kadri Gopalnath and Godkindi have previously performed in the district, Chidvilas recalled, noting that the audience response at this event filled a long-felt gap. He also commended President Keshava Prasad Muli for supporting cultural initiatives beyond business interests.
The event was compered by Ranjith K. and Gayatri Cheriyamane. Office-bearers and advisors of the Association were present along with leaders of various organisations.
Performances.
The programme opened with Udayavagale Namma Cheluva Kannada Nadu, sung by teachers of General Thimmaiah Public School under the direction of Megha Bhat. Renowned artist B.R. Satish added visual grace by painting an image of Bhuvaneshwari live on stage.
Artistes from across Kodagu – including Chandrashekhar S.V., K.S. Dhananjaya, Basavaraju, Mallappa Musigiri, Shobha Srinivas, H.S. Sudhir, Mohan T.D., Kaishnaveni Muli, Mehek Fatima, G.N. Srihari Rao, S.A. Muralidhar, Sandhya Chidvilas, Chitra Nanjappa, Vandana Ponnappa, Sapna Madhukar, Ajith Poovanna, Maliha Fatima, Lokesh Sagar, Supreeta Dilip, Hema P., Praveen Kumar, Gayatri Cheriyamane and many others – delivered memorable renditions of classic Kannada songs.
Students, cultural forums, and various artiste groups added to the vibrancy of the evening. Thunderous applause and whistles from the packed hall reflected the audience’s appreciation and the demand for more such cultural events.
