MANGALORE: The memorial structure constructed for Koti and Chennaya, legendary twin heroes of Tulunadu, remains under wraps, thanks to the election code of conduct.
Narayanaguru Yuvavedike, a Billava community organisation, has constructed a structure for Koti and Chennaya, the 16th century heroes known for their martial skills, heroic deeds and discipline at Nandigudda circle in the city. The vedike had obtained permission from the Mangalore City Corporation and constructed an attractive laterite-granite structure spending about Rs 4.25 lakh and named the circle after Koti-Chennaya.
Vedike members had plans to unveil the structure on Bisu Parba, a prominent festival among Billavas and other communities in Tulunadu. However, the officials have denied permission to open the structure saying that it may attract violation of poll code. Left with no other choice, the organisation has wrapped the structure and postponed the inauguration to after the election.
MS Kotian, work supervisor of vedike, told TOI that Koti–Chennaya brothers were brave hearts who helped and protected those who believed in them and they are worshipped by many in Garadis. “It is unfortunate that we have been denied permission to unveil the structure on Bisu Parba celebrated on April 14. We had obtained police permission, but on April 13, officials in the election section told us not hold the inaugural ceremony as it will attract violation of poll code. We are still not clear as to how the inaugural of a structure of legendary heroes comes under poll code,” Kotian said.
“Initially, we had decided to invite Congress leader Vinay Kumar Sorake, minister for religious endowment Kota Srinivas Poojary and former minister J Krishna Palemar for the inaugural. However, later we changed the decision and informed the officials that the programme will be held without the presence of political leaders, but permission has not been granted,” he said, adding that the statue will be unveiled either on May 12 or 19. The 12-foot structure of laterite and granite with Koti-Chennaya’s message was designed and constructed by engineer Santhosh Kumar.
