Literature is a vital tool to introduce culture and heritage to youth: Minister Ajay Singh

Minister for Irrigation Ajay Singh speaking at the 12th District Kannada Sahitya Sammelana in Raichur on Saturday.

​Amid the growing dominance of digital tools such as smartphones, laptops, and artificial intelligence platforms like ChatGPT, it is imperative for the younger generation to stay rooted in their native land, history, culture, and heritage, Minister for Minor Irrigation, Science and Technology, and Raichur district in charge Ajay Singh said.

​Addressing the 12th Raichur District Kannada Sahitya Sammelana, organised by the District Kannada Sahitya Parishat at the Jambaladinni Rangamandira here on Saturday, Dr. Singh emphasised that literary conventions play a crucial role in passing down timeless social values to today’s youth.

​Highlighting the rich legacy of Kalyana Karnataka, the Karmabhoomi of the 12th Century social reformer Basavanna and the 16th Century Dasa tradition led by Kanakadasa and Purandaradasa, along with the vachans of Akkamahadevi and Sarvagna, Dr. Singh noted that the Sharanas championed equality and knowledge beyond the barriers of caste and religion. Their works, therefore, carry enduring messages of humanity, equality, and social harmony.

​“Raichur’s folk songs carry the fragrance of the soil, Vachana literature preaches equality, Dasa literature radiates devotion, and the Sufi tradition embodies coexistence. Preserving and carrying the cultural legacy of this land – walked by Sufis, Sharanas, and philosophers – to the next generation is our collective responsibility,” he stressed.

Dr. Singh also recalled with pride that Raichur has hosted the All India Kannada Sahitya Sammelana three times in the past and noted that Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s recent proposal to host a World Kannada Conference in 2027, which would help further to the growth of the language.

​Speaking on the occasion, Raichur City MLA Shivaraj Patil said the region has nurtured Kannada literature since the era of poet Pampa.

MLC and reception committee chairman N.S. Boseraju said literary sessions should serve as a guiding force for governments by reminding them of their responsibilities and fostering discussions on protecting the region’s land, water, and culture.

MP for ​Raichur G. Kumar Naik observed that every district possesses a unique linguistic flavour, and Raichur’s Kannada is enriched by its confluence with neighbouring languages.