Sahyadri Utsav begins at Kuvempu University; students take out colourful cultural march

A university-level intercollegiate cultural competition titled Sahyadri Utsava, organised by Kuvempu University, began at Shankaraghatta, near Shivamogga, on Thursday. Students from over 40 colleges located in Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru participated in the event.

The event began with the offering of a floral tribute to the statue of Kuvempu, the poet, after whom the institute has been named. The students participated in the colourful march, depicting diversity and heritage. Several folk forms, such as Kamsale, Kodava dance, performance of Navadurga, Pooja Kunita, Nandi Kolu, Veeragaase, among others, were showcased during the march.

Actor and chairperson of the Kannada Film Chamber of Commerce Jayamala inaugurated the festival. In her remarks, she appealed to the youth to channel their intelligence on the right path. “Life becomes meaningful only when one reads literature, listens to music and appreciates art forms. If human beings become void of emotion, life remains empty. Make the best use of the quality education offered by the university,” she said.

Reflecting on her time as a researcher in preparation for her thesis on the rehabilitation of individuals displaced by the Almatti Dam, Jayamala noted that she conducted thorough research and gathered personal accounts from those affected before finalising her work. She felt a sense of fulfilment as she received the degree from then-President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.

Referring to the current conflict in the global arena, the actor said the entire world is gripped with the fear of war. “This is the time to embrace humanity. As Kuvempu said, we should strive towards realising the garden of peace for all communities,” she opined.

Prof. Sharath Ananthamurthy, Vice-Chancellor of the university appreciated the art forms performed by students as part of the event and suggested they spend the next three days to learn everything with joy. “This event is not just a competition but a platform to showcase the art within you,” he said.

Further, he remarked that no matter how much artificial intelligence (AI) advanced, only art could preserve humanness and emotions. No technology could ever replace art.

Registrar A.L. Manjunath, Registrar for Evaluation Prof. R. Thimmarayappa, Finance Officer Prof. H.N. Ramesh and Director of Student Welfare Prof. G. Prashanth Nayaka and others were present.