Develop 2-tier cities: Narayana Murthy at Kannada Sammelana

Belgaum, Mar 11: Despite a huge controversy and extreme resistance, the chief of I-T giant Infosys, NR Narayana Murthy reached Belgaum to inaugurate the much awaited Vishwa Kannada Sammelana (World Kannada Meet). The World Kannada Meet kicked off today (Friday, Mar 11).

Soon after reaching Belgaum, Narayana Murthy in an exclusive interview with Oneindia expressed his views and aspirations for the developments of Karnataka.

Mr Murthy claimed that people from all spheres of life including scientists, entrepreneurs and laureates from literary fields should concentrate together for the development of the state.

Mr Narayana Murthy, pulling all attention towards the I-T hub of Bangalore, stated that the garden city has become one of the most prominent city in the world map.

"Bangalore has become a prominent city in the global map. But we all should unite to present a blue print for Karnataka's growth and prosperity for the next 25 years," stated Mr Murthy during the discussion with Oneindia.

Emphasising on the developments in the two-tier cities of Karnataka, Mr Murthy claimed, "Now, Kannadiga's should focus on two-tiers cities like - Belgaum, Hubli, Dharwar and Gulbarga for the ultimate prosperity of the state."

Recently, several activists in Karnataka raised voices against the government's decision of inviting Mr Murthy in the Kannada Sammelana. Well-known writer Baraguru Ramachandrappa, terming Mr Murthy as anti-Kannada, asserted, "We have nothing personal against Murthy. But we are only questioning the intentions of the government in inviting Murthy who has not done anything for Kannada language."

However, while discussing on the issue, Mr Murthy at the Sammelana venue claimed, "...this is not the time to discuss and convene any rage against one another. Karnataka now needs a concerted and united effort towards progress."

A mini Karnataka seems to gather in Belgaum, a town bordering Maharashtra. Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa to film actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will grace the meet.

The Karnataka film industry has already declared a five-day holiday to express their solidarity. A 1,000-member team from "Sandalwood" would be one of the key attractions in the meet which will continue till Sunday, Mar 13.

Now, Belgaum has become a melting pot of literati and people from all spheres gathered to witness and enjoy the richness of Kannada language and culture. Mr Narayan Murthy also claimed, "This is the greatest Karnataka festival. Let's enjoy the moment."

OneIndia News