Mandya: A request was made to authors to submit 110 articles for the souvenir of the 87th All India Kannada Sahitya Sammelana. So far, 40 articles have been received according to HL Nagaraj, additional deputy commissioner of Mandya.
Nagaraj shared that more than 110 thematic topics were proposed for the articles, covering a range of subjects related to Mandya district. These include the geography, nature, and topography, as well as its archaeological sites, communities, and the historical significance of the farmers' struggle in the region.
The committee also invites the public to submit rare photographs, including those from Mahatma Gandhi's and Kuvempu's visits to Mandya, as well as images related to the construction of the KRS Dam and the Shivapura Satyagraha. Individuals wishing to contribute such memorabilia can submit them to the District Library.
Additionally, the committee is calling for a suitable title for the souvenir, which can be submitted in a sealed envelope to the District Central Library by Nov 20. A cash prize will be awarded for the selected title.
Deputy commissioner Kumara has emphasised the importance of transparent and efficient spending of grants allocated for Sammelana. The three-day event, scheduled from Dec 20 to 22, will see involvement from a variety of committees.
During a meeting with the member secretaries and conveners of the committees on Monday, Kumara said the grants released for each committee must be used responsibly. He said detailed action plans, outlining how the funds would be utilised should be submitted to the office of the special officer in charge of the literary conference, and work on each project will commence only after approval from the finance committee.
Kumara instructed that all expenditure related to the event must be thoroughly verified and submitted to the finance committee for review.
The DC expressed pride in the fact that Mandya district is hosting this prestigious event, calling it a significant celebration of Kannada culture.
He also noted that 28 committees were already formed, with govt officials as member secretaries and conveners.
Highlighting the importance of cooperation, Kumara added that the festival should be an opportunity to spread the glory of Kannada culture far and wide.
The event is expected to be a major cultural milestone for Mandya, and the district administration is keen on ensuring its smooth execution with utmost transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.