Mangaluru: On Saturday, at the University College campus in Mangaluru, Dr. Shamsul Islam, a retired Associate Professor of Political Science from the University of Delhi, unveiled posters containing the names of four significant incidents in the state and the names of 132 martyrs from Karnataka who participated in the First War of Indian Independence in 1857. This event was organized as part of the 'BV Kakkilaya Inspired Oration for 2023' on the topic of "Joint Martyrdoms, Joint Heritage of 1857 War of Independence" by the BV Kakkilaya Foundation.
The names of these martyrs were compiled by Dr. Islam from the 'Dictionary of Martyrs: India's Freedom Struggle 1857-1947' and included those who participated in battles at Nargund, Koppal Fort, Halagali, and Surapur in Karnataka.
During his oration, Dr. Islam emphasized that paying tribute to martyrs is a way of showing respect to Mother India. He stressed the importance of acknowledging and discussing the contributions of these martyrs, stating that failing to do so sends a negative message. Dr. Islam also touched upon the principles of the Rashtriya Swayamseva Sangh (RSS), asserting that they were against both the nation and humanity.
"The person who assassinated the Father of the Nation was neither a Pakistani nor an agent of the IS. Gandhiji was assassinated by a person who impersonated a fake sense of nationalism," he asserted.
Prior to Dr. Islam's lecture, members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), who are students of the University College, staged a protest against the lecture alleging the lecture aimed to propagate leftist philosophy among college students. The protesters carried placards with messages like "Go Back Shamsul" and "Save UCM." There were attempts by the ABVP members to confront Dr. Shamsul Islam and Prof. Keshavan Veluthat, a retired Professor of Mangalore University and historian, as they arrived at the venue. Tight police security was provided on the University College campus, and Prof. Veluthat was escorted to the stage by law enforcement officers.
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Mysuru: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah extended Dasara greetings to the people of the state, emphasising that the festival symbolises the destruction of evil and the protection of the righteous.
Speaking to the media at Suttur Math in Mysuru on Saturday, the CM noted, "Vijayadashami marks the conclusion of the Dasara celebrations, with the grand Jamboo Savari procession taking place. On this auspicious occasion, I extend my greetings to the people of the state and the nation. This year has brought good rainfall and harvest, bringing joy to our farmers."
He further remarked, "It is heartening to see all the reservoirs in the state filled. Dasara signifies the destruction of evil and the protection of the virtuous. I hope that those conspiring to create unrest and disrupt lives are granted wisdom by the Almighty."
Before participating in the religious and cultural events of Mysuru Dasara’s Vijayadashami, CM Siddaramaiah visited Suttur Math, offered prayers, and received the blessings of Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamiji.