Kannada Rajyotsava 2021: The Karnataka state of India celebrates its Kannada Rajyotsva on November 1. Back on November 1 of 1956, all Kannada language-speaking regions of South India were merged to form one state called Karnataka. Ever since then, the day has been celebrated as Karnataka Rajyotsava, Kannada Day, or Karnataka Formation Day.
The day is marked by community festivals, concerts, and a host of other events. It also sees the chanting of Jaya Bharatha Jananiya Tanujate, which is the Kannada anthem.
History and Significance of Kannada Rajyotsava :
The Karnataka Ekikarana movement was initiated by Aluru Venkata Rao back in 1905 and culminated with the Mysore state, which comprised of the erstwhile princely state of Mysore, was merged with the Kannada-speaking areas of Bombay and Madras presidencies as well as the principality of Hyderabad to create a unified Kannada-speaking state. It got the name Karnataka on November 1, 1973, during the tenure of the then Chief Minister Devaraj Arasu.
A government holiday in the state, it is celebrated across the world by Kannadigas. The day also sees the annual presentation of the Rajyotsava Awards by the Government of Karnataka.
The awards are given to people in the fields of literature, agriculture, environment, medicine, music, sports, yoga, films, television, education, journalism, social service, judiciary, among others.
Celebrations of Kannada Rajyotsava:
Rajyotsava Day is a colourful celebration with the red and yellow of the state flag being displayed across Karnataka. The main celebrations take place at Bengaluru’s Krantiveera stadium where the state Chief Minister hoists the state flag and makes a speech.
The governor of the state will also address the gathering. In addition to this, the Rajyotsava awards are announced by the government of Karnataka, which is considered the second-highest civilian award in the state. The Kannada anthem of Jaya Bharatha Jananiya Tanujate is also played.
