Kannada gets classical language tag, Karnataka makes a 'habba'

BANGALORE: Celebrations broke out across Karnataka on Friday evening as the news of the UPA government deciding to grant classical language status to Kannada came in.

The news that perked up the spirits on the eve of Rajyotsava, the state formation day, was first made public in the city by Kannada Development Authority Chairman Mukhyamantri Chandru during a literary function at the Nayana auditorium at Kannada Bhavan, the headquarters of the Kannada and culture department.

The word spread as Kannada TV news channels soon began flashing the news and it was celebration time across the State.  Bursting of crackers at street corners by youths waving yellow-and-white flags were a common sight across the Bangalore and other cities

Hailing the announcement, chief minister B S Yeddayurappa said: "I welcome it, and it is a gift we have received on the eve
of the Kannada Rajyotsava day.  Now that the announcement has been made, the proposed all party delegation to New Delhi to press the issue has now been cancelled."

KPCC president R V Deshpande: The continuous pressure exerted by the Congress for several years has now borne fruit during the BJP regime.

Rashtrakavi G S Shivarudrappa: I can't express my elation. I am very happy; at last the Central government has realised the value of Kannada.

Prof De Javare Gowda, former vice-chancellor Mysore University:  This news could not have come at a better time. As a Kannadiga, I feel happy. I cannot help but remember my Guru Kuvempu (the celebrated poet) on this occasion. This will open floodgates for research opportunities in universities within India and aborad. Apart from this, more funds will be allocated for the preservation of the language.

Dr M  Chidananda Murthy, litterateur: Kannada had all the qualities to become a classical language and finally it has got that status. It is nice to hear that Telugu also has got the classical language status.

Ramesh Gowda, Representative, Association of Kannada Kootas of America: That Kananda is one of the few languages to get the status befits the language. We in the USA will give all support for the development of the language.

Dr Nallur Prasad, President, Kannada Sahitya Parishat: Every Kannadiga should be proud of this.

Prof S G Siddaramaiah, former president, Kannada Book Authority: Our four-year-long struggle has succeeded. We will now get funds from the Centre for development of language.