Mysuru: ‘Kayakayogi’ award was presented to eight persons at a programme organised by Mysuru Kannada Vedike as part of Workers Day and Foundation Day of Kannada Sahitya Parishat, at Bayalu Rangamandira, Freedom Fighters Park, Subbarayanakere in city this morning.

Speaking after inaugurating the programme, Writer Bannur K. Raju highlighted the importance of Workers Day and called for unity among the working class.

Referring to Kannada Sahitya Parishat, Raju said that the Parishat was formed on May 5, 105 years ago and the Parishat, being a representative body of crores of Kannadigas has fought for the cause of Kannada land, language and water over the years.

Explaining the purpose for which the Parishat was set up, Raju criticised the current President Manu Baligar of working to his whims and fancies.

Alleging that Manu Baligar has arbitrarily increased his term from 3 years to 5 years, Raju also accused the incumbent Parishat President of groupism and misuse of money.

Bemoaning that the Sahitya Parishat had not set up a single Kannada school in recent years, Raju wanted the Parishat to function in a transparent manner and engage Kannadigas on important issues concerning our state.

Labourer Bhyrappa, specially abled tailor Renuka, Doordarshan reporter G. Jayanth, Mechanic Sharavana, local Congress spokespersons K. Mahesh, cell phone repairer Satish and plumber M. Mahesh were conferred ‘Kayakayogi’ award on the occasion.

Corporator SBM Manju, Vedike President S. Balakrishna, Unorganised Workers Association State President Rajappa, Writer Dr.V. Munivenkatappa and others were present.