Gurudevananda Swamiji of Odiyur Sri Gurudevadatta Sansthanam stated that the contribution of the Bantara community towards building a civilized society is significant.
He was speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Kodagu Bantara Bhavan, organized by the Kodagu District Bantara Bhavan Trust and the District Bantara Sangha in Madikeri recently.
He said that today’s society requires civilized citizens and emphasized that moral education must begin at home. He noted that mothers carry a great responsibility in imparting values to children.
He further stated that although Bantara Bhavans exist in various parts of the country, Kodagu district did not have a well-equipped Bhavan until now. He called upon all members of the community to extend wholehearted support for the early completion of the proposed project.
Chief Minister’s Legal Advisor and Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna, who attended as the chief guest, said that the Banta community is one of the influential communities in the country and has made its mark in fields such as industry and cinema. He suggested that the proposed building should be constructed in a planned and systematic manner and should reflect the cultural identity of the community.
Kodagu District Banta Association President B.D. Jagadish Rai, in his introductory address, said that although the building should have been constructed earlier, it was delayed due to various reasons. He remarked that whenever good work is undertaken, there are also individuals who create obstacles. However, he expressed confidence that the Banta community in the district is now united and that the current leadership is not deterred by such challenges.
He noted that Dr. Premnath Poonja had donated land for the welfare of the Banta community and that the Bhavan is being constructed on this land in accordance with his wishes.
He stated that the proposed building will be constructed at an estimated cost of ?12 to ?15 crore and expressed hope that it would be completed within the next three years. He added that with the cooperation of all, a well-equipped Bhavan will come up in Madikeri within the stipulated time.
Legislative Council Member M.P. Suja Kushalappa assured a contribution of 5 lakh towards the construction.
Businessman Kusumodara D. Shetty stated that the Bunt community is known for entrepreneurship and has achievers in various fields across the world. However, he pointed out that there is a lack of unity within the community and emphasized the need to overcome differences and work together.
Former MLA K.G. Bopaiah stated that the day would remain memorable for the Bunt community of Kodagu district. He said that Bunts, as part of the Hindu community, have excelled in various fields and appreciated the contributions of Dr. Premnath Poonja.
Former Minister M.P. Appachchu Ranjan said that wealth is not limited to money alone and that richness of heart is equally important. He suggested that along with constructing the Bhavan, additional land should be acquired for parking facilities. Girish Tellar, President of the Youth Wing of the Global Bunt Association, said that members of the community should give up jealousy and unite. He assured that the Global Bunt Association would extend support for the development of the Bunt community in Kodagu and for the timely completion of the Bhavan.
On the occasion, Dr. Premnath Poonja, a senior farmer and well-known doctor from Kodagu who passed away recently, was posthumously honoured with the title “Bunta Bahadur.” Details of his achievements were read out by Association Secretary Ravindra V. Rai. Sri Krishna Bhat performed the foundation stone laying rituals.
Dignitaries present included Bantwal Buntara Sangha President Jagannath Chauta, Puttur Buntara Sangha President Hemanath Shetty, noted kabaddi player Prashant Kumar Rai, Puttur Kambala Samiti President Chandrahas Shetty, Kodagu District Buntara Sangha Honorary President B.B. Aithappa Rai, Youth Wing District President Sadananda Rai, businessman Purushottam Rai, Madikeri Municipal Council President Kalavathi, Vice-President Mahesh Jaini, and office-bearers of various units of the Buntara Sangha.
Prior to the stage programme, Gurudevananda Swamiji was received at General Thimmaiah Circle and escorted to the venue in a bike procession.
Hita Yogesh Shetty and Apeksha Radhakrishna offered prayers. Vice-President Ratnakar Rai delivered the welcome address, Balakrishna Alva compered the programme, and Organizing Secretary Balakrishna Rai proposed the vote of thanks.
