Karwar: Shiv Jayanti, the birth anniversary of legendary Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is being celebrated in Uttara kannada on Monday. Inaugurating the program, Deputy commissioner of Uttara Kannada S S Nakul  said that Dalit vachanakaras propagated equality. Life values preached by Sarvagna, social service of Sevalal and administrative skills of Shivaji Maharaj are relevant even today.

He said that Sarvagna and Dalit vachanakaras had preached the message of equality in the 12th century itself. However, it is unfortunate that the society has not accepted those teachings so far. There is a need for creating awareness among the people in this regard. It is for the first time that State government is celebrating the birth anniversary of Sevalal. He had fought against the blind beliefs and equality of all, he added.

Nakul also said Shivaji Maharaj symbolises patriotism. Since his childhood, Shivaji grew up as patriot. His patriotism helped him grow as a great leader and king. 

Delivering his special lecture on ‘Dalit vachanakaras and Sarvagna’, G D Manoj said the vachanakaras become the voice of the dalits and other trodden people when voices of suppressed people were curtailed. It has due to their efforts that blind beliefs were eradicated to great extent.   

A special lecture on Sevalal was also presented on the occasion.  Lambani Community leader Suresh Naik, Konkan Maratha member Anil Nayak, Janardhan Goankar, and others were present.