Madikeri: Ignoring the rich culture and heritage can lead to nation’s nemesis, opined Ekalavya awardee of International fame Arjun Devaiah and called upon the Kodavas to protect the same through “Mandh Namme.”
Speaking at a gathering at the third Kodava Mandh Namme under the auspices of United Kodava Organisation, Arjun Devaiah cited the example of Greece which is on the verge of collapse for ignoring its culture and heritage while giving prominence to all other areas. Despite outside annexation and attacks, India survived turbulent periods because it relied on its rich culture, Arjun Devaiah stated, recalling the words of Swami Vivekananda, who had aired similar views.

Idealism and thoughts will not change the lifestyle of people, Devaiah said, adding that inorder to retain one’s identity one has to rely on self-esteem by not giving in to slavery.

In the past Mandh Namme used to unite Kodava communities and became centres of faith and dedication, Devaiah continued and emphasised on the importance of reviving and retaining the age old Mandh Namme culture.

Kodavas of complete integrity will never harm fellow community members in the form of abuse and accusations, he stated and called upon warring factions (mostly referring to differences between Kodava leaders A K Subbiah and N U Nachappa of CNC) within the Kodava community to bury the differences and stay united.