Sharing food, strengthening brotherhood, promoting unity – a unique program in Shivamogga village

Residents of Kunchenahalli near Shivamogga participated in Samanathegagi Sahabhojana, an event to promote social harmony, brotherhood on Sunday. Superintendent of Police Shivamogga B. Nikhil, Parivarthana Founder-President Vedike B. Gopal and others were present. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Residents of Kunchenahalli village near Shivamogga on Sunday came together for a unique initiative to promote social harmony by rejecting caste discrimination and promoting the spirit of equality and brotherhood.

The program was organized by Arivu Bharata, a Kolar-based organization committed to eradicating untouchability, at Jagadish Gowda’s residence in the village.

The highlight of the event was an inter-caste community meal where people from different social backgrounds dined together as a symbol of unity. The host’s house was formally declared a “house without untouchability” and the participants collectively pledged to promote equality, human dignity and brotherhood. They also participated in tree planting on this occasion.

Superintendent of Police Shivamogga B. Nikhil, who participated in the programme, said he had participated in similar initiatives during his earlier stint in Kolar.

“Such programs help break down caste barriers and strengthen social unity. The simple act of eating together fosters mutual respect and brotherhood. Despite legal guarantees, untouchability continues to be practiced in several rural areas. We must make sustained efforts to eradicate it completely,” he said.

RM Manjunath Gowda, Chairman, Malnad Area Development Board; Arivu Shivappa, founder of Arivu Bharata; HK Vivekananda, who undertook a walk of more than 8,400 km in the state to promote human values; B. Gopal, founder-president of Parivarthana Vedike and several other dignitaries attended the programme.

Villagers enthusiastically joined the activities and reaffirmed their commitment to building an inclusive and non-discriminatory society.

Published – 29 Jun 2026 20:42 IST