Udupi: Puthige Sri calls for promoting traditional skills

Udupi: The impact of globalization is leading to the decline of traditional craftsmanship. Therefore, alongside modern education, children should also be taught the family profession and the skills passed down through generations, emphasized Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji of Paryaya Sri Putaige Matha.

Inaugurating the Sri Krishna Saptotsava and a seven-day exhibition and sale of handicraft items prepared by members of the Sanjeevini groups at the Geeta Mandir as part of the Sri Krishna Janmashtami celebrations, the Swamiji spoke on the importance of skill development.

“The message of Lord Krishna is to acquire skills in any field. This handicraft exhibition has been organized as a symbol of this message. The central government’s encouragement of skill development is a positive step. During the celebrations, if people honour each other, it fosters unity and harmony in society,” Swamiji said.

Swamiji also highlighted the adverse effects of certain modern practices on society. “If all the children in a family become doctors or engineers, it will negatively impact other professions. We need to think about this seriously. Balance is essential in all industries. The hotel industry and artisans are facing a shortage now. We should never forget the professions learned within the family,” he added.

Junior Yati, Sri Sushrindra Theertha Swamiji, blessed the event. MLA Yashpal A. Suvarna remarked that encouraging handicraft industries can lead to the development of more businesses.

Murahari Acharya, the Dharma Darshi of Katapadi Kalikamba Temple, was honored with the Krishnanugraha Award.

Former MLA K. Raghupati Bhat, Deputy Commissioner Dr. K. Vidyakumari, industrialists Hariprasad Rai, Bhuvanendra Kidiyoor, Surendra Kalyanpur, Pradeep Kalkur, and Prem Menezes were present. Ramesh Bhat of Puttige Math conducted the event.

Handicraft Exhibition

Sanjeevini Handicraft Exhibition and Sale is being held at the Geeta Mandir in Shri Krishna Math until August 30. The exhibition features a variety of products, including incense sticks, soaps, Kalash mirrors, housewarming kits, turmeric ceremony materials, Devara Harivana, decorative torans, various paintings, sarees, and pottery items. Products from Udupi, Kapu, Shirva, Cherkadi, Udyavara, Uttara Kannada, and other regions are available for sale.