Hubballi marks Basava Jayanti, recalls social reformer’s ideals

Pic: Hubballi tahasildar Mahesh Gaste garlanding to the statue of Lord Basaveshwar at Mahatma Gandhi park in Hubballi.Hubballi: Basava Jayanti was celebrated with great fervour in Hubballi city on Sunday. From early morning, political leaders, social organisations and members of the public gathered to pay tribute to Jagajyoti Basaveshwar by garlanding his statues at Sarvodaya Circle and Mahatma Gandhi Park.The celebrations witnessed enthusiastic participation from several prominent leaders and activists. Karnataka State Excise minister RB Timmapur, Union minister Pralhad Joshi, Hubballi-Dharwad Central MLA Mahesh Tenginakai, HDMC deputy mayor Santosh Chavan, former MLC Mohan Limbikai and Samata Dal leader Gurunath Ullikashi were among those who offered floral tributes to Lord Basaveshwar. Representatives of various Dalit organisations, party workers and followers also took part in the programme in large numbers.Speaking at MG Park, minister RB Timmapur appealed to everyone to follow the principles and path shown by Basaveshwar in their daily lives. He said Basaveshwar's teachings continue to inspire society to uphold equality, harmony and dignity for all sections of people. He stressed the need for the younger generation to understand and adopt the values preached by the 12th-century social reformer.Union minister Pralhad Joshi said Basavanna introduced representation for women in Anubhava Mantapa in the 12th century itself. Defeating the women's reservation bill on his own land is very unfortunate, he said. Speaking to reporters here on Monday, Joshi added proposed delimitation of Lok Sabha constituencies has a proportionate increase for all states and it would not harm any state. However, the Opposition, especially Congress, betrayed people by opposing it. With an intention to become the CM, DCM DK Shivakumar is making statements against these bills, just to please Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Vadra, he added.The city wore a festive look as devotees, leaders and activists came together to mark the occasion with reverence and unity. The celebrations passed off peacefully in Hubballi.