Pressure mounts on govt to finalise tune for Naada Geethe

HUBBALLI: The delay by the department of Kannada and culture in finalising the tune to which Kuvempu’s ‘Naada Geethe (state anthem)’ is to be set has drawn criticism afresh from writers and litterateurs across the state. The department has been dragging its feet to finalise the official tune for the anthem ‘Jaya Bharata Jananiya (Hail, Daughter of Mother India…)’ for the past 17 years.
The department constituted two panels to decide the tune. While the first committee was reportedly in favour of Mysuru Ananthaswamy composition, the second one was believed to have leaned towards C Ashwath’s version. Another committee constituted more recently and headed by senior music artiste HR Leelavathi, meanwhile, has recommended Ananthaswamy’s composition.
Although the government had assured the people that the tune for the Naada Geethe would be decided by October 2, the deadline was missed. Minister for Kannada and culture V Sunil Kumar, meanwhile, has stated that a decision will be made by November 1, and the official version of the song released before the deadline. Whether or not the government arrives at a decision before rajyotsava is to be seen.
Music director Upasana Mohan told TOI, “Ananthaswamy’s composition is technically correct, and retains intact the literary essence of Kuvempu’s song. Ashwath’s composition is slightly difficult. Also, the placement of the word ‘Karnataka’ is wrong in his version. Ananthaswamy’s version is simpler, and can be learnt even by those without basic knowledge of music.”
Former member of Karnataka Sangeeta Nritya Academy Anand Madalagere said the panel constituted in 2006-07 had recommended Ananthaswamy’s version. “The government said the report went missing, and set up a second panel in 2014. It has been speculated that this panel favoured Ashwath’s version,” he said.
Kannada and culture minister Sunil Kumar was not available for comment.