Mysuru: The four-day Dasara Poets Meet organised by Dasara Kavi Goshti Sub-Committee, began at Jaganmohan Palace in city this morning with noted Music Director Hamsalekha inaugurating the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Hamsalekha expressed concern over clouds of war hovering around the world.

Pointing out that poets have the wit to clear these clouds through their writings, he said that budding poets should come up with their own ideas on preventing war and hatred.

Recalling Basavanna’s Vachana ‘Dayave Dharmada Moolavayya’, he said that fear has replaced ‘Daye’ these days and it was important for the poets to ensure that ‘Daye’ has a strong existence across the globe.

Renowned poet Dr. Siddalingaiah, in his address, said he was happy to note that the entire hall was full. Stressing on the need for spreading Kuvempu’s Vishwamanava Message across the world, he urged the Government to launch campaigns against superstitions and superstitious practices.

Expressing concern over the threat to Kannada land, language and water, Siddalingaiah observed that Government should take immediate measures for promoting Kannada.

Earlier, children from Rangarao Memorial School for the Visually  Challenged presented a musical performance, which earned applause from the audience.

Today’s event featured Vikasa Kavi Goshti. Tomorrow (Sept. 25) the theme is Vinoda Kavi Goshti; Visishta Kavi Goshti on Sept. 26 and Vikhyata Kavi Goshti on Sept.27, the concluding day.

A total of 24 poets from Mysuru, Chamarajanagar, Mandya, Kodagu and Hassan districts took part in today’s event. Hamsalekha’s wife and singer Latha Hamsalekha, Mayor M.J. Ravikumar, Sub-Committee office-bearers Dr. B.K.S. Vardhan, Dr. M.K. Lolakshi and others were present.