Mysuru: A two-day ‘Matthe Kalyana’ programme organised as part of the Statewide campaign to bring in harmony in society by Sahamatha Vedike was inaugurated by writer and Kannada Sahitya Academy former Chairman Prof. Aravinda Malagathi at Suchitra Art Gallery in Kalamandira premises here yesterday. 

After inaugurating a painting exhibition featuring pictorial depiction of Vachana Sahitya Movement, he also unveiled a painting titled ‘Matthe Kalyanakke Baa Basavanna’ to pay due respect to the great social reformer Basavanna who had launched a similar communal harmony movement ages ago.

The painting expo open daily from 10am to 7pm features about 45 paintings created by senior artist L. Shivalingappa.

Speaking on the occasion, Aravinda Malagathi said that ‘Matthe Kalyana’ should pave way for more inter-caste marriages, eradication of imbalance in society and total harmony among people. He hailed Vachana Sahitya as a great potential tool to create awareness among people on harmony. 

He expected the Movement to bring people together to cross the State border and cover the whole country. 

Artist Shivalingappa said that the paintings were very simple and meaningful, easily understood by children too.

Vedike Convenors Javarappa, K.R. Gopal Krishna, Sharanamahadevappa, former Rangayana Director H.Janardhan, writer Prof. K.S. Bhagawan, critic Prof. O.L. Nagabhushanswamy and others were present on the occasion. 

A Vachana Gayana programmes was held later at the Mini auditorium.