Beltangady, January 27: A unique lunch programme and conference was organized at Melantabettu village in Belthangady during which the Swamijis, leaders of various associations, dignitaries and the media persons participated in the lunch along with Daliths.
Nidumamidi Sri Veerabhadra Chennamalla Swamiji, Sri Veerabhadra Chennamalla Swamiji and heads of various mutts had participated in the lunch programme.
Nidumamidi Sri Veerabhadra Chennamalla Swamiji inaugurated the programme and said, sharing food with other develops a healthy bonding between humans in the society. He said, in the past our culture had no discrimination regarding the caste, clan and creed. Later racial discrimination had separated the individuals. Un-touchability is the continued version of this, he said.
He regretted that there has not been any transformation in the mindset of the people as far as treating Dalits is concerned. ‘The upper class people seem to think that Dalits have to be kept oppressed in order to maintain their own status as upper castes. This exploitation has a history of thousands of years. The transformation, can be achieved through constant efforts,’ he opined.
Atrady Amrita Shetty, Writer, said that exploited sections of the society suffer from a sense of inferiority and tend to accept exploitation as a rule, without trying to break free from their shackles. Lack of power appears to be the main reason for their exploitation. Merely releasing their hands from confinement does not do the trick, Dalits have to change their attitude and mindset,’ she opined.
Sri Jnana Prakasha Swamiji of Sri Shiva Yogeesha Math Mysore, gave a call to achieve social change first, before political and economic changes can occur in the lives of Dalits.
Adivasi Hakkugala Samanvaya Samiti state joint convener, S Y Gurushant, presided. Sri Basavanagideva Sharanaru from Chitradurga, Sri Okkaliga Muddanna Swamiji from Huliyoor Durga Tumakuru, Bantwal assistant superintendent of police, Rahul Kumar, writer, Admar Sripati Acharya, CPM leader, Vasant Achary, and several other leaders were present.
Shekar L, convener of Dalith rights fighting committee welcomed the gathering. The programme was compeered by Shyamraj. Eashwari, Secretary of the association thanked.
After the stage programme, food prepared by the Daliths was served to all.
As part of the Republic Day celebrations, during the harmony lunch program organized by Dalith Rights Fighting Committee, the entire people of colony had gathered to welcome all the seers and dignitaries. The entire area was decorated and appeared very neat and tidy.
