Mysuru: ‘Vikhyata Kavigoshti’ marked the concluding day of the 4-day Dasara Kavigoshti organised by the Dasara Kavigoshti Sub-Committee at Jaganmohan Palace here yesterday.

Kannada University, Hampi, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Mallika Ghanti inaugurated the event by reciting a poem titled ‘Appa-Avva!’

Kannada Development Authority (KDA) Chairman Dr. S.G. Siddharamaiah presided. Renowned lyricist Jayant Kaikini was present.

About 30 famous poets from across the State including Munivenkatappa, Banjagere Jayaprakash, P.M. Channabasappa, T.C. Poornima, Dr. K. Rameshwarappa, Prof. K.R. Premaleela, Alur Doddalingappa, Roshan Chopra, M.G. Deshpande and others took part in this important kavigoshti with the theme ‘Shanti Mantra,’ focussing on various issues such as farmers’ suicide, peace and harmony, preachings of Buddha, Basava and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar etc.

Mallika Ghanti said that one should understand the truth through poetry. Pointing out that a tolerant society can be established through poetry, she said that the only thing that one can leave behind for the next generation is co-existence.

Jayant Kaikini, who was the chief guest, said that there is a perception that only ‘moving crowds’ form an audience in poets meets. But the one at the Dasara has always got a large crowd comprising connoisseurs.

Observing that there are more poets than readers, he said that one cannot excel only with Facebook poetry. Pointing out that poetry gives new perspectives to life, he said that with fear quotient rising among people, love and care is the only antidote to counter it.

KDA Chairman Prof. S.G. Siddharamaiah, who presided, said that there was no end to poets who come up with their expressions. Taking a dig at conservation prevailing in the society, Prof. Siddharamaiah said that Pampa and other contemporary poets had taken on the conservative society through their poems. He further said that poets from the times of Pampa had always fought against the class,   colour and creed.