– Mohammed Atherulla Shariff
Bengaluru: A popular Kannada daily published from Bengaluru and Managaluru, Vartha Bharati is 22-year-old now. Describing the daily as the “voice of the voiceless” and a steadfast proponent of truth in journalism, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah lauded its 22-year journey of delivering accurate and reliable information.
Speaking at the release of Vartha Bharati’s 22nd Annual Special Edition, he emphasised the publication’s role in shedding light on societal issues and ensuring government accountability.
Siddaramaiah released the 22nd annual special edition of Vartha Bharati and handed over the first copies to Ambika Mandya and Manjunath Koppal, who represented the readers.
The event, held at the CM’s official residence, Krishna, also witnessed the launch of globalkannadiga.com, a dedicated website catering to the Kannada diaspora worldwide. Additionally, Siddaramaiah released the book Nijada Soojimone, a collection of columns by Balasubramanya Kanjarpane published under the title Anugala.
Speaking at the event, Siddaramaiah expressed his appreciation for the newspaper, saying, “I am pleased to release Vartha Bharati’s Annual Special Edition and inaugurate the globalkannadiga.com website. Vartha Bharati has always been the voice of the voiceless, growing significantly over the years. It ensures that people receive accurate information.
“I read Vartha Bharati regularly, as it highlights societal issues and assesses whether the central and state governments are people-oriented.”
He emphasised the importance of truth and objectivity in journalism, saying, “The press must remain truthful and objective. Society has been plagued by caste inequalities and deprivation of education. Vartha Bharati has worked as a voice for the marginalised. Media should continue to work towards building a humane society devoid of hatred and filled with mutual respect and love.”
Siddaramaiah also commented on the book Nijada Soojimone, highlighting the role of columns in addressing societal flaws. He hoped the globalkannadiga.com website would become a platform for Kannadigas worldwide to voice their concerns.
Renowned multilingual actor Prakash Raj released the collection of Vartha Bharati’s editorials during the event. Speaking on the occasion, he said, “In today’s times, the role of the media is crucial. Releasing Vartha Bharati’s collection of editorials is an honour. Reading its editorials is a unique experience. Vartha Bharati safeguards Karnataka’s social fabric with fearless and honest journalism. I hope it continues to work for the people and remain committed to its principles.”
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao congratulated Vartha Bharati on the launch of the Global Kannadiga website, which aims to deliver global news in Kannada to the diaspora.
“Vartha Bharati has been at the forefront of presenting progressive and logical content. It truthfully reports news and has become the voice of Kannadigas across Karnataka. Their effort to connect with Kannadigas worldwide through globalkannadiga.com is commendable. I wish them success,” he said.
The event was attended by several prominent figures, including Housing, Wakf, and Minority Welfare Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan; Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh; MLA Shivalingegowda; CM’s Political Secretary Naseer Ahmed; Vice President of NRI Committee Dr. Aarthi Krishna; CM’s Additional Chief Secretary L.K. Atheeq; writer Agrahara Krishnamurthy; Bearys Group Chairman Syed Mohammad Beary; CM’s Media Advisor K.V. Prabhakar; Vartha Bharati Chief Editor Abdussalam Puthige and Director Yaseen Malpe.
