Mysore/Mysuru: Noted Sandalwood Music Director Dr. Hamsalekha lauded the initiative of Karnataka State Dr. Gangubai Hanagal Music and Performing Arts University, Mysuru, introducing Certificate and Diploma Courses in Martial Arts to preserve desi arts.

Speaking at the launch of training in martial arts at Music Varsity recently, Hamsalekha said “Stunt Master Hassan Raghu has been striving hard to preserve martial arts in the State, which has come to the notice of Varsities. Apart from preserving and nurturing martial arts, it is also important to bring it to the mainstream   of society.”

Martial arts helps in developing interest in life, also boosting health. Those who have learnt martial arts can also be assured of job opportunities, with the martial arts being taught at schools too. Those who successfully complete Certificate or Diploma Course in Martial Arts at Music Varsity, can be assured of serving as Teacher in Martial Arts at schools, said Hamsalekha.

Stunt Master Hassan Raghu said “The students willing to join Certificate Course or Diploma Course at Varsities should have a specific qualification. However, it is a matter of joy that Music Varsity has taken a step forward to offer Certificate/ Diploma Course in Martial Arts to the students without any pre-requisite qualification, but based on  their experience.”

“The certificate will also be helpful in seeking the monthly honorarium provided by Kannada and Culture Department to artistes. While foreign Universities have been offering Certificate Course in Martial Arts, our Varsities are yet to take note of it. There are several stunt masters working in cinema and schools, who can look forward for more benefits on the basis of certificate,” Raghu added Film Director B. Suresh also addressed the programme.

A troupe of Basavaraj Kuduri performed Mallakambha, followed by Donne Varase (stick fighting) by Karnataka Sports Silambum Association, wrestling (kusti) by wrestlers of Dodda Garadi, Kyatamaranahalli and martial arts by students of Oshokai Martial Arts College.

Writer Prof. K.Y. Narayan Swamy, Music Varsity VC Prof. Nagesh.V. Bettakote, Registrar M.R. Rajesh, Registrar (Evaluation) Prof. Mahadevan, President of Bharathiya Shyli Karnataka Kusthi Sangha K.N. Vijaykumar, Pailwan Chinna, President of Karnataka Sahasa Kala Academy M. Altaf Basha, General Secretary Shivamogga Dinesh and others  were present.