CHENNAI: Declaring that “a new era in the brotherly and cordial ties between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu has dawned,” Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa on Thursday unveiled the statue of Kannada saint-poet Sarvajna here.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi profusely quoted from the verses of Sarvajna and hailed him a revolutionary poet while Yeddyurappa drew inspiration from 'Thirukkural' couplets and hailed the vision of the Tamil saint for the global community.
Karunanidhi reiterated that no strings were attached to the unveiling of the statues of Thiruvalluvar and Sarvajna. “It is not based on any bargaining…certainly not,” he said and added that the gesture was aimed at improving friendly ties between the two states.
Karunanidhi recalled the welfare measures being implemented for the Kannada-speaking people living in Tamil Nadu. He also referred to the concessions being given for the Malayalam-speaking people as well Telugu-speaking people in education and other sectors.
“I am highlighting these only to underscore the fact that the Tamil Nadu government always respects the sentiments of the people of neighbouring States,” he added.
The star-studded function witnessed the participation of as a large number of actors from Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Similarly, ministers of both states as well as leaders of the BJP attended the function. However, Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, Siddaramiah, was conspicuous by his absence.
Karunanidhi said as the Jeeva Park where the statue of Sarvajna was installed lacked space for organising such a public meeting, the venue for the meeting was shifted to ICF Grounds. After the function, both Karunanidhi and Yeddyurappa drove to Jeeva Park and witnessed the statue of the saint-poet for a few minutes.