This story is from November 24, 2014

`Speak Kannada when in public'

Shyam Prasad S / Bangalore Mirror Bureau / Updated: Nov 24, 2014, 10:18 IST

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Lyricist Kaviraj has started drive to popularise use of the language in malls, banks, offices

Popular Sandalwood lyricist Kaviraj has, along with a few dozen friends, launched a campaign to popularise the use of Kannada in public places. The recently-formed group, Kankana, started its activities on Sunday in front of a mall in JP Nagar. Over a hundred people dressed in uniform, held plac ards urging people to speak in Kannada in public places.
While Kaviraj took part in the event, veteran director NagathihalliChandrashekar has lent his support to the group.Kaviraj said the reason for starting this project was the continuing trend of abandoning the local language in places like banks, malls, supermarkets and offices due to a growing lack of self-confidence. Kaviraj said that Sunday's event was only the beginning and similar attempts urging people will be held on a regular basis throughout Bengaluru in the coming weeks and months.
The Sunday event at JP Nagar did not witness any sloganshouting or demands or forcing anyone to talk in Kannada.“It is only an attempt to instill confidence in the local people who feel overwhelmed in such places. It is not against anyone nor is it a demand forcing everyone to speak Kannada on our terms. We are only asking Kannadigas to speak in Kannada,“ Kaviraj said. As of now, 50 events over the next 50 weeks have been planned.
“From citizens to youngsters, everyone stopped to talk to us. A retired IAS officer who saw us, joined us as a volunteer.A senior BBMP officer joined the team at the venue. A police officer said he duty time is complete and took a t-shirt from us and stood in line. At the end of the event, the circle inspector of the area offered tea and coffee to all of us! Everyone said they wanted a programme like this. We are inspired to continue this effort.“ Among other Sandalwood celebrities present at the Kannada campaign was director DinakarToogudeepa, brother of actor Darshan.

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