Lt. Gen. Baggavalli S. Raju (retd) inaugurated the Dasara celebrations in Shivamogga by offering prayers to Chamundeshwari at Chandika Durga Parameshwari Temple on Monday. MLA for Shivamogga S.N. Channabasappa presided over the inaugural ceremony.
Lt. Gen. Raju, stating that the opportunity to inaugurate the Dasara was an honour for him, said that the festival was a symbol of victory of truth and dharma over untruth and injustice. Every festival conveyed the same message to humanity.
“The festivals are occasions when people assemble to celebrate, keeping aside all differences. No matter however rich or poor, people join hands to celebrate the occasion. The events organised to mark the celebrations encourage talents,” he said.
As an officer in the army, Mr. Raju said that he had the opportunity to serve the country for 39 years. He worked at different locations in India. “I have worked at places where the temperature was around -50 degree Celsius, and similarly, at the place where the temperature went up to as high as 50 degree Celsius. I feel it was a great opportunity to see the country and serve the nation,” he said.
He also appealed to the citizens to join the armed forces. “If your children want to join the army, support them, don’t discourage them. If required, you can contact me for any guidance,” he said.
Legislators Dhananjay Sarji and D.S. Arun; Shivamogga City Corporation Mayanna Gowda; and others were present. Shankarananad Jois conducted the rituals.
Published – September 22, 2025 06:55 pm IST
