Bengaluru, Nov 1 (NationPress) On this special day of Kannada Rajyotsava, celebrated on Saturday (November 1), Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy conveyed his heartfelt greetings to the citizens of Karnataka, encouraging them to embrace their heritage and language with pride.

Kannada Rajyotsava, also known as Karnataka Formation Day, is commemorated annually on November 1 to signify the establishment of Karnataka. This momentous occasion took place in 1956 when all Kannada-speaking areas of South India were merged to create the state of Mysore, which was later renamed Karnataka in 1973.

In a message posted on X, Kumaraswamy expressed, "Warm greetings to everyone in our land on the occasion of Kannada Rajyotsava. Among countless languages, our mother tongue is paramount. As proud children of Mother Kannada, let us cherish our land and language, spreading the message 'Kannada is truth, Kannada is eternal' throughout the globe."

During his address at a book fair hosted by Sapna Book House in Bengaluru in conjunction with Kannada Rajyotsava, Kumaraswamy emphasized the need for a flourishing reading culture. He urged the youth to develop a passion for reading physical books rather than becoming engrossed in mobile devices. He advocated for state support to foster this culture and proposed initiatives for purchasing books out of love for the mother tongue.

The Minister underscored the urgency for the state government to commence acquiring books for public libraries, stressing the importance of nurturing linguistic pride and promoting literary interest among the public. He noted, "I have learned that for the past four to five years, there has been no bulk purchase of Kannada books. Reports in the media have highlighted this issue, and the state is certainly capable of funding the acquisition of Kannada literature."

"An enriched reading culture strengthens a language. Kannada boasts a rich literary heritage. Many esteemed authors, poets, and writers have contributed significantly to Kannada literature. Personally, I have read the renowned author Ta.Ra.Su’s novel 'Durgastamana' multiple times, and I am currently revisiting it. Each reading reveals its captivating power. Shouldn’t Kannadigas engage with such timeless literature?" he queried.

He further insisted that Kannada literature should be readily accessible in public libraries. The government ought to approach bulk book purchases with sincerity and affection for the language, embodying the sentiment of 'Our Kannada, our literature, our writers.'

"In today’s world, operating a publishing house is challenging. Nevertheless, numerous publishers across Karnataka persist, motivated by their profound love for Kannada. Sapna Book House has made remarkable contributions in this regard. I too am a frequent buyer of books from Sapna Book House," Kumaraswamy shared.

Attendees at the book fair included Rajya Sabha MP and Infosys Foundation founder Sudha Murty, senior writer Janagere Venkataramayya, actor and writer Aniruddha Jatkar, actress Ankita Amar, and many literary enthusiasts.

Meanwhile, BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra inaugurated the Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations organized by the Taluk Administration and the Kannada Yuvaka Sangha in Shikaripura, paying homage to the portrait of Goddess Bhuvaneshwari.

"Our land is known as Karnataka. Let Kannada become the breath of life for us all," he declared.

"The Kannada language, with its extensive historical roots, represents our pride and identity. Let us all serve Mother Kannada by promoting its use, preservation, and growth," Vijayendra added, extending his best wishes on Kannada Rajyotsava.