Mysore/Mysuru:  Stars descended on Suttur Srikshetra at Nanjangud taluk in the district yesterday, making the annual religious event colourful.

Kannada film actors Daali Dhananjaya, Neenasam Satish and Nagabushan, along with lyricist and music director Vasuki Vaibhav, entertained the gathering by repeating popular dialogues from their movies. The fans who were eager to catch a glimpse of their favourite actors, jostled for space to click a selfie with them.

Support Kannada artistes

Speaking on the occasion, Daali Dhananjaya said, he will be forever grateful to Suttur Mutt, for having educated at its JSS educational institutions and reaching this stage in his life.

“The people of the State should bless Kannada artistes, as I am a votary of encouraging actors coming from underprivileged background. Nothing can be achieved through mere talks, but with unwavering devotion and patience. Carve out a better life, without resorting to conflict. It is easy to provoke others, but not what all we see and hear is true. One should respond only after giving a better thought,” said Daali Dhananjaya, in his appeal to youths.

Quoting 12th century social reformer Basavanna, actor Neenasam Satish said, “Basavanna had described all mortals as equal. We should look for God in our elders and children by doing good deeds.” Satish rendered the song ‘Elu…Elu Madeva Kelu…’ from his upcoming film ‘The Rise of Ashoka.’

Desi games

Desi games was another major attraction of the day, with slush race, tug-of-war, boulder lifting competition and sack race with 50-kg bag organised for the rural men. Brothers duo Mallesh and Mahesh from Udigala village in Chamarajanagar taluk, won first and third prize respectively in stone lifting competition.

Awareness thru art

The Medical Exhibition organised as part of the Jathra, created awareness on keeping good health, especially of kidney, with a touch of art. Puppet Show was staged to educate people on developing a healthy lifestyle and kidney related ailments and treatment.

Most importantly, by keeping a cadaver, the visitors at the exhibition were informed about how the people con gullible persons and steal their kidney.

Rathotsava and Religious Meet

Food and Civil Supplies Minister K.H. Muniyappa, who inaugurated the Rathotsava and Religious Meet, lauded Suttur Mutt for being a beacon of social reforms, by implementing the principles envisaged by Buddha, Basava and Ambedkar.

Suttur Seer Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamiji and Tumakuru Sri Siddaganga Mutt’s Sri Shivasiddeshwara Swamiji graced the event.

Regional Commissioner of Mysuru Nitesh Patil, Rajanna Koravi, NASA Scientist Shivanand, Shankar Pillai, Sali Siddaiah Swamy, Dr. J. Lohit, Prof. Morabada Mallikarjun and K.P. Basavaraju were present.