Bengaluru, Nov 1 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar revealed on Saturday that a proposal will be put forth to require the hoisting of the Kannada flag at all government and private offices throughout the month of November during the upcoming state cabinet meeting.

After offering floral tributes to Goddess Bhuvaneshwari near Vidhana Soudha and receiving parade honors at the Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations for school students held at Kanteerava Stadium, Shivakumar shared with the media, “Karnataka is more than just a state; it is a cradle of culture. Kannada transcends being a mere language; it embodies the essence of our identity.”

“For those who embrace it, it serves as nectar; for those who walk alongside it, it offers shade and light. Kannada is not just a language; it is a way of life. We must safeguard Kannada from the encroachment of English and Hindi,” he emphasized.

Reciting poet Gopalakrishna Adiga’s words, the Deputy Chief Minister stated: “Our breath is Kannada, our sweat is Kannada, our name is Kannada, our work is Kannada, it’s all Kannada, come join us.”

“From iconic figures like Adikavi Pampa and Basavanna to Allama Prabhu, Kanakadasa, Purandara Dasa, Kuvempu, Bendre, and Masti, we possess a remarkable literary heritage. It is essential for our children to inherit and continue this literary legacy,” he remarked.

Shivakumar, also the state Congress President, highlighted the nearly 2,000-year history of Kannada, stating, “This land has a distinct charm. Rarely do newcomers wish to leave. Karnataka is a place of peace and inclusivity. Those who migrate here find food, shelter, and opportunities. This is the greatness of our mother Kannada and this hallowed soil. The culture and environment here are unparalleled in the nation. Our land and water possess a magnetic appeal.”

“All Kannadigas must unite. We must honor the sacrifices, dedication, and efforts of those who upheld the dignity of our language, land, and flag. No other state boasts both a state flag and a state anthem, but we do. We have erected the statue of Goddess Bhuvaneshwari at Vidhana Soudha and mandated that at least 60% of all signage in the state be in Kannada. Moreover, celebrating Kannada Rajyotsava has become obligatory for industries, factories, and commercial establishments in Bengaluru,” he added.

Shivakumar expressed optimism about the year, noting, “This year has been fruitful. The rains have rejuvenated the soil, and the KRS dam in Mandya has filled up three times in just one year.”

“As Kannada poet Kuvempu articulated, Karnataka is a garden of peace. We must rise above caste and religion to collectively advance Karnataka. Bengaluru shines on the global stage, and the world is observing us. We need to elevate Kannada and Karnataka on an international scale. Goddess Bhuvaneshwari is the mother of the entire world, the guardian deity of our land,” he stated.

Reflecting on his childhood, Shivakumar recalled, “Watching the school parade today brought back memories of my school days. I too wore the same uniform and marched with discipline, playing the bass drum. I remembered walking in this very stadium during my school years.”

“Since the era of Emperor Ashoka, Kannada has held a prestigious position. The media has played a vital role in highlighting the history of Kannada and Karnataka. I extend my heartfelt wishes to all Karnataka residents on Kannada Rajyotsava,” he concluded.