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rightly proud of him. But the nature of the treasures packed into this work makes it a national asset. Friends of culture both in Karnataka and outside have to contribute to the endevour to retrieve the treasures locked up in this work.
In this land which was under the iron heel of slavery for a century similar cultural assets may be still hidden in institutions and residences. Every effort has to be made to locate them and to realize the treasures they can yield. The recovery of our national heritage is a sacred mission. "Siribhoovalaya' is a part of that heritage and the work of the scholars and the publisher who have placed this invaluable work in the hands of readers deserves all praise. I am happy to be associated with this dedication of the work to the country. Once again I congratulate all those friends who have participated in this most commendable endevour.
Today I have also had the previlege of felicitating three eminent personalities at this splendid newly built RASUKUMAKI hall. In the centenarian, Pandit Sudhakara Chaturvedi, we have a giant of scholar in the sphere of Vedic studies. He had the rare good fortune of studying the four Vedas and the Darshana Sastras at the feet of a Guru in a Gurukula. He has initiated hundreds of disciples into the study of the Vedas and has written with authority on the Vedas, on Veda Matha Gayathri and on yoga, in three languages, Sanskrit, Kannada and English. He is one of the authorities today on Vedic lore and ancient Indian philosophy and thinking. But he is not a student of ancient lore who keeps poring over ancient texts in seclusion. A disciple of the dynamic Shraddhananda and an associate of Gandhiji, our Panditji has participated in the struggle for freedom and has suffered imprisonment; he has toiled for radical reforms in the Hindu society. He is a rare blending of a profound scholarship and dynamic action.
Justice Dr. Nittur Srinivasa Rao won laurels as a member of the Bar and as a member of the Bench; he presided over the Karnataka High Court with distinction. He is also a symbol of concord and cordiality. His association with the Gokhale Institute of Public Affairs founded by revered thinker, Dr D.V.Gundappa, for several decades bears testimony to his temperament of silent service. He has been associated with numerous institutions of public service. Now in his hundredth year, he still evinces a keen interest in their activities.
Professor G. Venkatasubbaiah has won the gratitude of thousands of students by his lively and illuminating guidance. He is one of the authorities on lexicography today, and the common man in Karnataka turns to him for guidance in the correct use of Kannada. He is the author of several scholarly works and has also served Karnataka as the President of the Kannada Sahitya Parishat.
Pustaka Shakti is honouring itself today by felicitating these three eminent personalities who serve as models to the younger generation. I pray that they will be with us, in excellent health, for many years to come.
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