Mangalore: Speaking on the occasion of Valmiki Jayanthi Day celebrations in Kodialbail, at Kudmul Rangarao Hall today, DK Minister J. Krishna Palemar informed the gathering that the state government had declared a holiday on this occasion, in recognition of values and messages for all ages propounded by the first world poet and author of  Ramayana, Valmiki.

The programme was organised by DK Dt. Administration, and SC/ST welfare department of Karnataka.
Palemar stated that Valmiki’s messages will inspire our people for all time to come, and help create an awareness in society towards social amity.
City MLA Yogish Bhat who inaugurated the programme of celebrations, later said that Valmiki was a hunter who turned a poet and a saint. He referred to Ramayana and Ramarajya which is still an Indian concept.

Chief guests Prof. Abhaya Kumar, K. Santosh Bhandary, U.T. Khader, Shantha Haleshappa (Valmiki Sabha Chief) also spoke on the occasion. Dr Vijay Prakash, Prabhulinga Kavalikatti, Tahsildar Manjunath were present. S.S Kale welcomed the guests, and Taluk welfare officer R. Nayak proposed a vote of thanks.