Mysore/Mysuru: Former Mayor Purushotham, a prominent advocate of ‘Mahisha Dasara,’ has issued a statement clarifying that the controversial remarks made by writer and rationalist Prof. K.S. Bhagawan at the ‘Mahisha Utsava’ and ‘Dhamma Deeksha Day’ event held at the Town Hall premises were solely his personal opinions.

During a press conference at Pathrakarthara Bhavan this morning, Purushotham expressed his disapproval of Prof. Bhagawan’s comments targeting Vokkaligas. He mentioned that it was unfortunate that the remarks were made, especially when they had advised Prof. Bhagawan not to deviate from the topic of ‘Mahisha Utsava.’

Purushotham emphasised that these comments did not reflect the views of their organisation, and they had nothing to do with them. Nevertheless, since the event was organised by their group, he offered an apology to Vokkaligas if the remarks had caused any offence.

Purushotham further elaborated that while poet laureate Kuvempu’s historical comments about Vokkaligas were relevant in their time, they no longer held relevance today. He stressed that making such remarks to hurt people’s sentiments was inappropriate. He expressed gratitude for the positive response to the ‘Mahisha Utsava’ event.