Mysore, May 10 (KCU&KK)- A day-long Bhasha Bhavaikyata Samavesha (convention on linguistic harmony) together with Kannada Samskruthi Habba (cultural fest) organised by St. Philomena's College in association with Kannada Development Authority (KDA) began at the college premises on Mysore-Bangalore Road here today.

The event began with KDA Chairman Mukhyamantri Chandru laying foundation stone for the proposed Kannada Bhavan in the college premises.

As a prelude to the event, a colourful procession was taken out from Maruti Circle in N.R. Mohalla (near the old Employment Exchange) to the college.

Over 300 students of the college apart from those coming from foreign countries like Afghanistan, West Indies, Europe and Africa and from other States of the country took part in the procession carrying Kannada flags with pride. Accompanying them were several folk troupes performing with percussion instruments, the eye-catching one being a seven-member all women troupe performing veeragase.

The procession was flagged off by litterateur Dr. D. Javaregowda by beating the Thala Maddale. Mukhyamantri Chandru too joined him.

KDA Secretary S.M. Shantharaj, member Prof. M. Krishnegowda, College Principal Fr. Leslie Moras, PU College Principal Fr. M. Vincent and Programme Convenor Prof. A.T. Sade Bose were present.

Dejagow, speaking after inaugurating the Samavesha, pointed out that Kannada language, with a rich heritage of over 2000 years stands in the forefront. "Karnataka has always welcomed people from other States, but they should respect the language," he opined.

Mukhyamantri Chandru delivered the keynote address.

Prof. K. Srihari, Joint Director of Collegiate Education, S. Manjappa, Assistant Director, Department of Kannada and Culture and Maddikere Gopal, President, District Kannada Sahitya Parishat, were present.

The afternoon session would feature a seminar with cine Director Nagathihalli Chandrashekar and litterateur Dr. W.S. Taranath delivering lectures.

There would be a session for non-Kannadigas with Dr. R. Indira, Director, International Centre, delivering the keynote address. Lectures would be presented by Dr. C. Naganna, Professor of Comparative Literature, University of Mysore and writer Shikaripura Harihareshwar.

Folk troupes will present Janapada Jathre in the evening followed by a cultural prog. by students from other States. The finale would be a laser show.

Courtesy : Star Of Mysore