‘Shed inferiority complex and embrace the vision of equality and social justice'
'Secular and pluralistic values are the backbone of India and it is under the guidance of the teachings of the Buddha, Basava and Ambedkar that we find unity in our Constitution,' professor of Kannada at Central University of Karnataka Appagere Somashekar has said.
He was speaking at the Buddha-Basava-Ambedkar Vicharotsava, a symposium organised at the open-air auditorium in the Vijayanagara Sri Krishnadevaraya University (VSKU), Ballari, on Wednesday.
Emphasising the influence of the progressive ideals of the Buddha, Basava and Ambedkar's thoughts on the Constitution, Prof. Somashekar urged the people to shed inferiority complexes and embrace the vision of equality and social justice they championed.
'Their dreams have taken shape in the very fabric of the Constitution. We must uphold those values and fight to realise them,' he said.
Buddhist writer Buddhaghosh Devendra Heggade described the Buddha as a timeless figure whose teachings remain relevant across all generations. He noted that the Buddha's Panchasheel principles offered a guiding light to people of all castes, religions and communities.
'Today's youth, unfortunately, lack familiarity with the life and wisdom of the Buddha,' he lamented.
Literary scholar and university syndicate member Amaresh Nugadoni highlighted the transformative relevance of the trio's philosophies. 'The thoughts of the Buddha, Basava and Ambedkar are essential for human development. Basavanna's Vachanas and his awareness of knowledge continue to lead us towards innovation and enlightenment,' he said.
University Vice-Chancellor M. Muniraju, who presided over the event, noted that Dr. Ambedkar worked to ensure justice for every marginalised community. He stated that the programme's goal is to instill the ideologies of the Buddha, Basava and Ambedkar in students, so they may contribute meaningfully to their families, society and the nation.
During the occasion, winners of speech competitions on the philosophies of the Buddha, Basava and Ambedkar were awarded cash prizes and certificates.
Veteran writer N.D. Venkamma offered Buddha Vandane, a dedicated prayer.
The event also featured a procession within the university campus with students dressed as the Buddha, Basava and Ambedkar, accompanied by a float carrying their portraits. The procession was led by Registrar S.N. Rudresh.
Cultural highlights included renditions of revolutionary songs presented by the Department of Performing Arts and Drama.
N.M. Sali, N. Shantanayak, Sushma Jogan, Shridevi Alur and other faculty members, research scholars, teaching and non-teaching staff and students were present.
The day concluded with a series of cultural performances in the evening.
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