Reported by :Amareshanna kamanakeri
Kalaburagi: The State Government has initiated steps to establish a modern Vachana Mantapa near Kalaburagi city to showcase the rich legacy of the Sharana tradition, the social revolution led by the Vachanakaras, and the cultural heritage of Kannada literature, said Kalaburagi District In-charge Minister Priyank Kharge.
Chairing a meeting with officials regarding the design, construction plan and facilities of the proposed Vachana Mantapa, Minister Priyank Kharge instructed officials to ensure that the project is developed with meaningful concepts and reflects the true spirit of the Vachana movement.
During the meeting held at his office in Bengaluru, the Minister reviewed the designs and conceptual reports prepared and submitted by renowned architects for the proposed Vachana Mantapa.
The ambitious project is proposed to be developed on 6 acres and 6 guntas of land located at Survey No. 44/1 in Kapanur village of Kalaburagi taluk. Along with the Vachana Mantapa, the project also includes plans for establishing a museum, interpretation centre, experience centre and research centre to introduce visitors to the lives of the Sharanas, Vachana literature and the history of the Vachana movement.
The centre will showcase the lives, contributions, portraits and valuable Vachanas of Basavanna, the cultural icon of Karnataka, and other Sharana-Sharanes who contributed to the Vachana revolution. The Mantapa will be designed to spread the ideals of equality, dignity of labour (Kayaka), social service (Dasoha) and social justice among present and future generations.
The project will also include an open auditorium to facilitate discussions, dialogues, lectures, seminars and cultural programmes. It will serve as a knowledge hub for researchers, students and those interested in Vachana literature by providing necessary resources and facilities.
Focus on Development of Historical and Heritage Sites in Kalaburagi District
Minister Priyank Kharge said that the government is giving special priority to the conservation and development of historical, heritage and religious sites in Kalaburagi district to promote tourism and preserve cultural identity.
During the meeting, discussions were held on the conservation works of the Surya Narayana Temple in Kalagi taluk, development of the historic Malkhed Fort in Sedam taluk, and preservation and development of archaeological remains in the heritage area of Nagavi in Chittapur taluk.
The Minister also directed officials to take necessary steps for the conservation and development of the historic Buddhist site and archaeological remains at Kanaganahalli in Chittapur taluk.
The government’s objective is to preserve and promote the historical and cultural heritage of Kalaburagi district while transforming these sites into attractive destinations for tourists, students and researchers. These initiatives will provide a boost to tourism activities and contribute to local economic development, the Minister said.
Senior officials from various departments participated in the meeting. Kalaburagi Deputy Commissioner Iqbal Sharif and district officials also joined the discussion through video conference.
