Swear by Your Roots and Master Your Mother Tongue: Venkaiah Naidu

Hyderabad: Former vice-president M. Venkaiah Naidu blamed the societal problems on increased influence of colonial culture and urged people to go back to their roots and learn their respective mother tongues. Colonial rulers, besides looting the wealth of the nation, had also looted the hearts of Indians who now leaned towards Western cultures and practices, he said.

Addressing a gathering after inaugurating an exhibition of traditional musical instruments at Lokmanthan – Bhagyanagar 2024 in Shilparamam on Thursday, Naidu likened the English language to spectacles and the mother tongue to the eyes.

The purpose of conducting Lokmanthan was to shrug off the colonial mindset and go back to the rich practices and heritage of the country, he said.

Naidu said that all the great people, including President Draupadi Murmu, former President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former CJI N.V. Ramana had pursued their primary education in their respective mother tongues. He said he had never changed my attire. Stating that the family system is the backbone of Indian culture and Hindu religion, Naidu asked people to make their children self-dependent by emphasising on hard work from childhood.

Earlier, he performed a special puja to the Gajakesari form of Kakatiya ruler Rani Rudrama Devi placed at the entrance of venue. The Lokmanthan exhibition showcased the traditional music instruments of the country with a focus on tribal music instruments from different parts of the country.

Union minister for coal and mines G. Kishan Reddy said President Murmu will formally inaugurate the Lokmanthan on Friday.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will attend Lokmanthan on all the remaining three days. Around 2,500 delegates will discuss the ongoing narrative of India’s cultural and political evolution.

Lokmanthan discussions will range from economic policies that can boost India’s global competitiveness to evolving strategies for preserving and promoting indigenous knowledge systems, he said.

State minister Jupally Krishna Rao said that the department of culture was collaborating with Lokmanthan.

Asking the delegates to understand the rich culture and practices of Telangana, Rao said that Indian lifestyle sends a message of unity in diversity. Respecting the rich tribal heritage and practices, Lokmanthan must delve into finding solutions to contemporary problems of the society, he said.