The Shivamogga City Corporation has organised a slew of cultural and social awareness programmes to mark the Shivamogga Dasara here from October 14 to 23, said K.B. Prasanna Kumar, Shivamogga MLA.
In view of the drought situation prevailing in the State, the city corporation decided to celebrate Dasara festivities in a simple manner. It has been decided not to invite artistes from outside, but provide a platform for local troupes, Mr. Kumar said at a press conference here on Tuesday.
He said special cultural programmes would be held for women in the name of Mahila Dasara at Kuvempu Rangamandir on October 14 and 15 and entertainment programmes for children titled ‘Makkala Dasara’ at the same venue on October 15 and 16. Artiste Ruthvik Muralidhar and troupe would present Yuva Dasara, a special programme for youths, at Kuvempu Rangamandir on October 21, he said.
To instil confidence among farmers, who are facing hardship due to drought, Raitha Dasara would be held on October 21. Agricultural scientists would apprise the farmers on the latest trends in farming. The artistes of Sahyadri Kalatanda will present a drama titled ‘Baavi’ on the occasion, he said.
The city corporation is drawing up a comprehensive proposal to be submitted to the Ministry of Urban Development for the Smart City project. It had been decided to solicit public opinion on the schemes that could be initiated under the Smart City project during Dasara festivities. An interactive session with the public would be held in this regard during Yoga Dasara, a programme charted for October 18. In addition, a drama focussing on the concept of Smart City project, would be staged as part of Samskrutika Dasara, which would be held at Kuvempu Rangamandir on October 19, he said.
Mayor Mangala Annappa and Deputy Mayor H. Palakshi were present.
Later, vocalist Shivamogga Subbanna inaugurated Shivamogga Dasara on the premises of Kote Chandika Durgaparameshwari temple here. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Subbanna said that Dasara festivities should become an occasion to showcase the rich culture of the land. Artiste S.B. Shivalingappa and troupe presented a music concert on the occasion.
