Mangaluru: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was at his charismatic best as he greeted the crowd assembled in Kannada after offering prayers at Dharmasthala Sri Manjunatheswara Temple.

The crowd cheered and shouted in ecstasy as Modi opened his speech in Kannada. “Last week I had paid a visit to Kedarnath and today I am offering prayers at this temple,” said Modi addressing the gathering. Further he added that he was not sure if an individual like him can be deemed fit to felicitate an achiever and a reformer like Dr Heggade. He, however in the capacity of an elected representative of the people of the country could honor the man who has since the last 50 years dedicated himself for the service of the people, Modi told.

Dr Heggade who embarked on a ‘one life one mission’ cause at a young age of 20 and dedicated himself towards it is an inspiration for all of us, said Modi adding that even when faced with problems, Dr Heggade kept society above himself.

Earlier, the Prime Minister was felicitated by Dr Heggade, who also spoke about the need to recognise the rich language like Tulu by according It a classical status.