Titular head of the erstwhile Mysuru Royal family Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar said that the legacy of our cultural wealth and richness must be passed on to the future generations and everyone should join hands for this purpose.

He was speaking after inaugurating the 26th ‘Hejje-Gejje’ National Dance Festival, organised by the city’s Sri Nimishamba Dance Promoters, at MMC&RI Platinum Jubilee Hall in J.K. Grounds here on Jan. 28.

Pointing out that Mysuru is known for its rich heritage and culture since the times of the Mysuru Maharajas, Yaduveer said that it is matter of delight that this rich legacy has continued even now.

Recalling his younger days, Yaduveer said that he used to take part in one or the other cultural programmes being held in Lakshmipuram and its surroundings whenever he came to Mysuru during weekends.

Noting that it is not the responsibility of the Government, Palace and Associations and Organisations alone for promoting culture and heritage, he highlighted the role of every citizen in this endeavour.

Reiterating the need for carrying forward the rich cultural legacy that we are currently enjoying, to the future generations, he stressed on the need for Mysuru to retain its glory as the cultural and heritage capital of  the State.

Renowned Music Director and singer Gurukiran was conferred with ‘Kannada Ratna’ award, while Vid. Sudhir and Vidu. Manasi Sudhir, Bharatanatyam artiste-couple of Nrithyanikethana Kodavoor, Udupi; Kala Arati Ratna Dr. Sanjay Shantaram, noted artiste and Founder of Shivapriya School of Dance, Bengaluru and Dilip Raj and Srividya Raj, actor, director and producer couple, Bengaluru, were conferred with ‘Hejje-Gejje’ award on the occasion.

Also, artiste Advika Ajay Kumar was presented the first ‘Guru Mechhida Shishye’ award instituted by Sri Nimishamba Dance Promoters and several art patrons were felicitated.

Earlier, Yaduveer released the title of the new award and read out the name of the first recipient.

Guru Vidwan Sridhar Jain and his wife Vidushi Sowmya Jain, the Directors of Sri Nimishamba Dance Promoters and about 350 students presented an exciting ‘Deva-Devi Vaibhava,’ a one-hour  Dance-drama, which mesmerised the audience.