Ajjnikanda Mahesh Nachaiah, President of the Karnataka Kodava Sahitya Academy, emphasized the importance of cultivating a reading culture at home.
He was speaking after inaugurating the 6th Kodava Book Foundation Establishment Programme held at Somwarpet Kodava Samaj.
He stated that knowledge is the foundation of all wealth and that a strong reading culture is essential for acquiring knowledge. He further remarked that fostering a book culture within the Kodava community would help eliminate negative influences and strengthen cultural values.
Somwarpet Kodava Samaj President Maletira Abhimanyu Kumar noted that the institution serves as a cultural home for the community and expressed hope that the culture of giving through books would flourish.
Elder Kallengada Appachchu highlighted that literature has played a vital role in preserving culture. He urged that children be encouraged to remain connected to their roots while pursuing education.
Poetess Hanchettira Fancy Muthanna expressed concern over the declining connection with literature, noting that initiatives like book fairs help instill appreciation for culture and values among children. Â During the event, the second edition of the book “NambikePuranatraNadulKodavadaSamskatikaBadk” by Karotira Shashi Subramani was released. He emphasized the need for more research-based literature in the Kodava language.
Former Academy member TelapandaKavan Cariappa presented a paper on the “Need and Benefits of Kodava Literature”.
Various dignitaries spoke about the importance of literature in preserving Kodava identity. Folk singer NapandaChinnappa captivated the audience with his performance of “KodavNad”.
The event also included felicitation of individuals contributing to society. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks.
