DSC03560
DSC03585
DSC03687
DSC03749
DSC03817
DSC03869
DSC03958
Udupi, October 2: Deputy Commissioner Dr. K. Vidyakumari emphasized that the principles of truth, peace, and non-violence espoused by Mahatma Gandhi remain timeless and relevant. She urged everyone to integrate these values into their lives and commemorate Gandhi Jayanti with meaningful tributes.
The event was jointly organized by the District Administration, Zilla Panchayat, Information and Public Relations Department, City Corporation Udupi, Bharat Scouts and Guides Karnataka District Institute, Badagabettu Credit Co-operative Society, Udupi District Co-operative Union, Udupi District Samasta Sahakari, and other organizations under the aegis of the Archaeological Research Centre. Collaborative support was also provided by Leo District 317C, Christian PU College, Lions Club Udupi Indrali, Lions Club Udupi Chetana, and Lombard Memorial Mission Hospital, Udupi.
Dr. Vidyakumari inaugurated the valedictory function of the district-level 155th Gandhi Jayanti programme by spinning the charkha, symbolizing Gandhi’s ideals of self-reliance.
Keynote Messages
Dr. Vidyakumari remarked, “True cleanliness is both internal and external. Mahatma Gandhi’s journey from an ordinary individual to a global leader offers life lessons on perseverance and humanity. His experiences in South Africa inspired him to challenge oppression and shaped his non-violent resistance against British rule, which became an inspiration for India’s freedom fighters.”
Jayakar Shetty Indrali, District Chief Commissioner of Bharat Scouts and Guides, highlighted Gandhi’s commitment to cleanliness, stating that these efforts should not be confined to a single day but practiced daily to instill discipline, self-restraint, and community service from childhood.
Prasad Rao M., Associate Professor at Government First Grade College, Thenkanidiyur, reflected on Gandhi’s contributions, noting, “Today marks a significant day in India’s history, celebrating both Gandhi Jayanti and the birth anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri, a leader of bold decisions. Gandhi’s ideals of equality and non-violent resolutions inspire us to treat everyone with respect and dignity.”
Celebrations and Recognitions
- Essay Competition Winners:
- High School Category: Sakshi Kulal (1st), Maithri (2nd), Shivani (3rd).
- Pre-University Category: Rakshita Bhat and Pannidhi D. Saini (joint 1st), Shetty (2nd), Divya (3rd).
- Graduate and Postgraduate Category: Bheemambika (1st), Amisha (2nd), Ashwini D.S. (3rd). Winners received cash prizes, citations, and a commemorative poster on Mahatma Gandhi.
- A special felicitation ceremony was held to honor the 24 selected pourakarmikas for their dedicated service.
Programme Highlights
The celebrations included a cleanliness drive at the old KSRTC bus stand, organized in collaboration with the district administration and associated groups. A cleanliness jatha started at 8:30 am from the clock tower near the service bus stand, culminating at the Town Hall in Ajjarkadu. Participants included students, scouts and guides, and office-bearers of various organizations who promoted cleanliness through slogans during the march.
Dignitaries and Contributors
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Additional Deputy Commissioner Mamta Devi G.S., ASP S. Sudhakar, Municipal Commissioner Rayappa, and others. Representatives from the Lions Club, Badagabettu Credit Co-operative Society, and various district-level officers also participated.
The gathering was welcomed by Municipal Commissioner Rayappa, with the program moderated by Dayananda and a vote of thanks proposed by District Information Officer Manjunath B.