MYSURU: A charming and good-humored moment unfolded in Mysuru on Monday during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH). The exchange took place between President Droupadi Murmu and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and it quickly became a highlight of the day.
The event, attended by a host of senior dignitaries including Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot and Union Minister Anupriya Patel, saw Chief Minister Siddaramaiah begin his welcome address in Kannada. Looking towards the President with a smile, he playfully asked her, “Do you know Kannada?”
President Murmu’s response was met with applause. Acknowledging that Kannada is not her mother tongue, she said, “I deeply cherish all the languages, cultures, and traditions of my country. I hold great respect and regard for each of them.” She went on to encourage everyone to keep their native languages and traditions alive. “And I will certainly make an effort to learn Kannada, little by little,” she added, winning over the audience.
The President’s gracious reply is particularly notable given Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s recent push for the Kannada language. Months ago, he had stated that “everyone living in this state should learn to speak Kannada,” as a way to promote state identity and culture.
The incident occurred as President Murmu was in Mysuru for a two-day visit. She was received at the airport by Governor Gehlot and CM Siddaramaiah, and the AIISH event also had in attendance dignitaries such as Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao and BJP MP Yaduveer Wadiyar.
“I Will Learn Kannada”: President Murmu’s Witty Response To CM Siddaramaiah’s Question
