The rich culture, heritage and values of Karnataka’s folklore came alive during Janapada Jatre, a folk festival organised on the premises of the Government College for Women here on Tuesday.

The day-long event was organised to create awareness among students about fading or disappearing folk art forms. Folk expert Kyathanahalli Ramanna inaugurated the programme and addressed the students, colourfully dressed in saris and other traditional attires. The teaching and non-teaching staff also wore traditional clothes on the occasion.

Mr. Ramanna urged students to strive hard to protect folk art forms and cultures in the State.

A colourful procession, including a bullock cart and various folk troupes, was taken out on the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway.

Veeragarse Kunitha, Dollu Kunitha, Pata Kunitha, Puja Kunitha, Huli Kunitha (traditional tiger dance), Sobane Pada, Garatiya Hadugalu, Kanaja Puja, Dhanya Puja, and Hasemane Padya were performed during the event to enthusiastic applause from the audience that included students, lecturers and parents. There was also a rangoli drawing programme.

A “desi-style” mock wedding of two girls was also organised as part of the programme. Many girls opened stalls and sold home-made delicacies at the college.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> States> Karnataka / by Special Correspondent / Mandya – February 20th, 2019