Napkolu : Codava National Council (CNC) President Nandineravanda U Nachappa said the ‘Thok Namme’ (Gun Carnival), which highlights the significance of gun represents Kodava culture and life.

He was speaking after offering puja to guns as part of ‘Thok Namme’ festival held at Cauvery Estate in Kolakeri near Napoklu on Friday.

Nachappa said the gun carnival is observed every year. The programme is being conducted held in order to create awareness on the legislative rights of Kodavas to own a gun, which is a religious emblem. The programme also features mass worship of guns and aims to pass the message to the government that the possession of gun is a birth right of a Kodava, he said.

The next generation too will be encouraged to worship the traditional weapons, such as guns. The guns have a prominent position in the lives of Kodava Kshatra tribals and are being worshipped at the Nellakkiyadi, which is an important place for the tribals, he added.

Nine resolutions, including urging the government to recognise the guns in Kodava culture and encourage the next generation to carry on the tradition of worshipping guns, were passed on the occasion.

Bachamanda Kasthuri and Boppanada Bollamma Nanaih also spoke. Ajjanikanda Mahesh Nachaiah, Pullera Kalappa, Chambanda Janath and others were present.