Let the National Youth Festival held in Hubballi-Dharwad pave the way for cultural harmony. The dignitaries of the cultural and literary sectors wish that this event ends up being a prelude to cultural exchange.

Hubballi-Dharwad is home to music, literature and cultural activities. Dignitaries shared their happiness about the National Youth Festival wishing for more such festivals that could inspire the youth and steer them in the right direction.

Padma Shri Pandit Shri M Venkatesh Kumar has made an indelible mark in the field of music. He said, “The fact that this National Youth Festival has been organized in North Karnataka gives me immense pleasure. It is always an opportunity for people here to enjoy music, dance and the cultural splendor of different parts of the country. It is good that the youth are participating in a big way. Youth power should spearhead Indian culture. Good things should be done.”

Sitar maestro Nawaz Ustad Shri Bale Khan said, “Opinions can be known only when festivals are held. More such festivals should be held frequently. This will pave the way for cultural exchange across countries, while transcending languages. It will be a platform for cultural harmony. The youth should abide by their religious principles and perform their daily duties and move forward without hurting anyone. Let the National Youth Festival be an inspiration.”

Manohara Granth Male of Dharwad is well known in the literature circle. Sameer Joshi, who is the manager of the organising committee and recognised as torch bearer for the new generation, shared his opinion, “It is great to see people come from different parts of the country and participate in this grand festival. It is a great opportunity to showcase the cultural splendour of the state. There are many programmes designed, including adventure sports, catering to the youth. It is a cultural study for all, not just the youth. It is possible to witness innovative cultural programmes of Assam, Jammu-Kashmir right here. Other states can also imitate our traditional folk arts like dolu kunita, dodata, sunnata and yakshagana.”

Author, Publisher Dr Hema Pattana Shetty said, “This festival sends positive vibes. It is very important in this era, It is also a platform to bring out the best talents. People of all castes and religions gather here. The talent that emerges here will open up many possibilities. The youth is engrossed in mobile phones and have restricted themselves to lectures focusing only on their marks. For such people, there is no room to play games. The classroom is their world. Therefore, this National Youth Festival is the need of the hour in every way.”

Yoga Guru Laxman of Dharwad’s Yogamanya Yoga Sadhana Centre said, “Yoga has received special recognition in this festival. A recent trend sees young people interested in yoga. On such an auspicious occasion, Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, who is known as the ambassador of yoga, is coming to Dharwad. If more people develop an interest in yoga through the PM’s visit, the ceremony will be successful.”

Theatre artist Veeranna Pattar said, “It is really wonderful to have a festival in a good city like Dharwad, which is home to music. All forms of arts are regulated through this festival. It is the biggest festival. Every glory here should be recorded and shown to the next generation. Cultural activities and sports bring unity. Discrimination will be eliminated. So, this is a good platform.”