Valmiki Jayanti, the birth anniversary of writer and social reformer Valmiki, was celebrated with traditional fervour across the district on Thursday.
As part of a programme organised by the district administration, a portrait of Valmiki was taken out in a procession on the main streets of the city.
Performances by Dollu Kunitha, Veeragase, and Kansale folk art troupes were the highlight of the procession. Addressing the programme held at Kuvempu Rangamandir in the city later, M.B. Bhanuprakash, MLC, said Ramayana, the epic authored by Valmiki, has moulded the sensibilities of Indians for centuries.
Dance drama
Meanwhile, Valmiki Jayanti was also observed at the office of the BJP. A dance -drama on the life and achievements of Valmiki was staged by the students at Jnanadeepa Vidya Samsthe in Javalli village near here.
There were similar, colourful celebrations in Mysuru and Hassan as well.