Dharwad
Folk art represents the cultural values, knowledge and artistic traditions of society, said former Karnataka State Silk Marketing Board President Savita Amarshetty.
She was speaking after inaugurating the Folk Art Festival-2026 organised by Dr. S.S. Jeevannavar Education Trust at the government primary and high school premises in Kotbagi village.
She said folk literature has developed from people’s lives and has passed through generations while preserving traditions, beliefs and customs. Many writers have worked to collect and document oral folk forms, helping future generations understand the importance of this heritage. She appreciated the trust for organising the festival to protect folk culture.
Pali language scholar Pabbajjoravitipali Wijjamunio said folklore has preserved moral and ethical values of Indian culture for centuries. Author Gurumurthy Yaragambalimath said folk traditions represent collective experiences of people and continue to survive through various art forms connected to the roots of society.
During the programme, several personalities including Savita Amarshetty, Pabbajjoravitipali Wijjamunio, Gurumurthy Yaragambalimath and others were honoured with the Srijeevaman Sadhanashri Award. Artists from Kotbagi’s Udachammadevi Bhajana Sangha and students presented folk performances. Trust President Praveena Jeevannavar welcomed the gathering, while teacher Basana Gowdannavar proposed the vote of thanks. Village leaders, teachers and cultural enthusiasts participated in the event and celebrated the rich folk heritage.