Kalaburagi is set to host the significant Akka Mahadevi Jayanti on April 4, an event dedicated to commemorating the remarkable life and enduring teachings of the 12th-century social reformer and poet, Akka Mahadevi. Organized by the Jagatika Lingayat Mahasabha district unit and its women’s wing, the celebration aims to inspire attendees with her profound contributions to society. This cultural gathering will also highlight contemporary achievements by felicitating five distinguished women from various fields, recognizing their impact and dedication to their respective communities.

What Happened?

The Jagatika Lingayat Mahasabha district unit and its vibrant women’s wing officially announced the upcoming Akka Mahadevi Jayanti celebrations. The event is scheduled for April 4 in Kalaburagi, a city known for its rich cultural heritage. The primary objective of this annual commemoration is to deeply engage with and promote the ideals and revolutionary spirit of Akka Mahadevi, a figure who bravely challenged societal norms during her time through her poetry and social work. Her legacy continues to resonate, advocating for equality and spiritual freedom.

Preparations for the Jayanti Utsav are well underway, promising a day filled with insightful discussions and recognitions. The function will be presided over by Dakshayini S. Appa, the esteemed President of Sharanabasaveshwara Vidya Vardhak Sangha, lending a significant institutional presence to the event. Adding to the intellectual gravitas, Vijaya Korishetti, the accomplished Vice-Chancellor of Karnataka State Akkamahadevi Women’s University in Vijayapura, will inaugurate the celebrations, underscoring the academic importance of Akka Mahadevi’s work. Furthermore, a special lecture will be delivered by Shivaganga Rumma, Head of the Kannada Department at Central University of Karnataka, offering scholarly perspectives on the poet’s contributions.

The event will also be graced by two prominent chief guests: Bharati Reshmi, Chairperson of Reshmi Education Institute, and Chandrika Parmeshwar, Chairperson of the Guarantee Scheme Implementation Committee. A key segment of the program involves the felicitation of five women achievers. These exceptional women represent diverse sectors: Bhagyashree Sharanprakash Patil for healthcare, Amareshwari Baburao Chinchansur for business, Surekha Rajkumar for agriculture, Parveen Sultana for literature, and Mala Kanni for social service. This recognition aims to applaud their hard work and inspire others within the community.

Key Highlights

Akka Mahadevi Jayanti will be celebrated on April 4 in Kalaburagi.
The event is organized by the Jagatika Lingayat Mahasabha district unit and its women’s wing.
Its primary goal is to commemorate the life and progressive teachings of the 12th-century social reformer and poet, Akka Mahadevi.
Dakshayini S. Appa, President of Sharanabasaveshwara Vidya Vardhak Sangha, will preside over the function.
Vijaya Korishetti, Vice-Chancellor of Karnataka State Akkamahadevi Women’s University, will inaugurate the Jayanti Utsav.
Shivaganga Rumma, Head of the Kannada Department at Central University of Karnataka, is scheduled to deliver a special lecture.
Five distinguished women achievers from various fields will be honored during the celebration.
The felicitated individuals include leaders in healthcare, business, agriculture, literature, and social service.

Why Does This Matter?

The celebration of Akka Mahadevi Jayanti holds profound significance for common people, transcending historical reverence to offer contemporary lessons and inspiration. Akka Mahadevi was not just a poet; she was a pioneer who challenged societal norms and patriarchal structures in the 12th century. Her unwavering pursuit of spiritual freedom and social justice, articulated through her powerful Vachanas, serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of individual agency and the courage to advocate for change. By celebrating her legacy, communities are encouraged to reflect on issues of gender equality, personal freedom, and the power of expression, making her ideals relevant in today's world where such struggles continue in different forms.

Furthermore, the felicitation of five women achievers from diverse fields—healthcare, business, agriculture, literature, and social service—adds a crucial layer of modern relevance to the event. This recognition highlights the invaluable contributions women make across various sectors, often against significant odds. For many, seeing women like Bhagyashree Patil, Amareshwari Chinchansur, Surekha Rajkumar, Parveen Sultana, and Mala Kanni honored serves as a powerful source of inspiration. It demonstrates that dedication and talent can lead to impactful achievements, encouraging younger generations, especially girls and women, to pursue their ambitions and contribute meaningfully to society. Such events foster a sense of community pride and promote the idea that recognizing local heroes strengthens the social fabric and encourages collective progress.