Kannada Rajyotsava 2025 Celebrations

The Kannada Rajyotsava Programme was organized by Adichunchanagiri University on 26th November 2025 at the BGS Auditorium with great enthusiasm and cultural fervour.

 

The Kannada Rajyotsava celebration was held in the *divine presence of Paramapoojya Jagadguru Sri Sri Sri Dr. Nirmalanandanatha Mahaswamiji, Hon’ble Chancellor, ACU.* The event was graced by *Dr. Nagathihalli Chandrashekhar*, renowned novelist and film director, who attended as the Chief Guest. The programme was also honoured by the esteemed presence of Dr. S. N. Sridhara, Vice Chancellor; Dr. C. K. Subbaraya, Registrar; Sri D. Devaraj, Trustee, Adichunchanagiri Shikshana Trust; Dr. N. S. Rame Gowda, CEO, Adichunchanagiri Shikshana Trust; Shri M. Siddaraju, Former President, Karnataka Media Press; Dr. M. G. Shivaramu, Principal & Dean, Faculty of Medical and Allied Health Sciences; and Dr. B. Ramesh, Dean, Academics & Accreditation.

 

he programme, moderated by Mr. Balaji and Ms. Lekhana, MBBS students, commenced with the screening of the video *“Namma Vachana, Bahuvachana”.* In honour of eminent personalities and their contributions to society, video tributes of *Padmabhushana awardee Dr. S. L. Bhyrappa and Padmashree awardee Salumarada Thimmakka* were presented. This was followed by a graceful Bharatanatyam welcome dance. The event further showcased a series of soulful Kannada musical performances that celebrated Karnataka’s rich heritage, culture, and linguistic pride..

 

 A special highlight of the celebration was the release of *Kannada books authored by ACU faculty and students*, signifying the university’s continued contribution to regional literature.

 

In his welcome remarks, Dr. M. G. Shivaramu acknowledged the profound literary contributions of Dr. Nagathihalli Chandrashekhar in fostering and promoting the Kannada language. Dr. S. N. Sridhara, Vice Chancellor, accentuated the historical importance of Kannada Rajyotsava and the enduring heritage of Karnataka. In his keynote address, *Dr. Nagathihalli Chandrashekhar urged the audience to embrace their mother tongue* in everyday life and uphold a sense of pride in one’s linguistic identity.

 

The celebration also included the *felicitation of the 2025 Rajyotsava awardees — Dr. N. S. Rame Gowda and Shri M. Siddaraju* — in recognition of their remarkable contributions to society. Prizes were also awarded to students who excelled in various literary and cultural competitions held as part of the ACU Kannada Rajyotsava.

 

In his Ashirvachana,, *Paramapoojya Jagadguru Sri Sri Sri Dr. Nirmalanandanatha Mahaswamiji* highlighted the expressive and emotional power of one’s mother tongue and reflected on the early literary journey of *Rashtrakavi Kuvempu*, who elevated the Kannada language as an instrument of emotional and cultural expression.

 

The event concluded with an impressive *cultural showcase by the students of ACU*. The performances celebrated the diverse heritage and ethos of Karnataka, featuring Dollu Kunitha, Yakshagana, Kamsale, Bharatanatyam, and melodic renditions praising Karnataka and the Kannada language.

 

Sustainable Development Goals

• SDG 4 – Quality Education

• SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities (Cultural Inclusion & Preservation)

• SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities (Safeguarding Cultural Heritage)

• SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals (University–Community Collaboration)