Dharmasthala Lakshadeepotsava: Sarva Dharma and Sahitya Sammelanas Illuminate Unity and Culture
Dharmasthala, Nov 28, 2024: In the sacred land of Dharmasthala, where traditions and spirituality intertwine, the Lakshadeepotsava isn’t just a festival—it’s a confluence of ideas, faith, and culture. As part of this annual celebration, the Sarva Dharma Sammelana (Interfaith Conference) and Sahitya Sammelana (Literary Conference) stand out as transformative platforms promoting unity and intellectual enrichment.
Sarva Dharma Sammelana: A Beacon of Harmony
First introduced in 1933 by the visionary Dharmadhikari Manjayya Heggade, the Sarva Dharma Sammelana was conceived as a space for dialogue between religions. True to the ethos of Dharmasthala, where Jain administrators oversee the worship of Lord Manjunath in the Vaishnavite tradition, this conference fosters understanding and mutual respect among various faiths.
Leaders and scholars from Hinduism, Jainism, Christianity, Islam, and other religions come together to share perspectives, discuss spiritual principles, and inspire harmony. By encouraging dialogue and reflection, the Sammelana aims to promote coexistence and the universal value of compassion, a message that resonates deeply in today’s divisive times.
Sahitya Sammelana: Celebrating Kannada Literature and Culture
The Sahitya Sammelana, also initiated in 1933, showcases the vibrancy of Kannada literature, art, and thought. Its goal is to instill pride in Karnataka’s cultural heritage while creating awareness about the richness of the language. Prominent authors, poets, and scholars grace the stage, sharing their insights and inspiring a love for literature among attendees.
This year’s 92nd Sahitya Sammelana will be inaugurated on Saturday evening by renowned scholar Shatavadhani R. Ganesh. Esteemed writer Padekallu Vishnu Bhatt will preside over the session, while accomplished speakers like Dr. Prameela Madhav from Bengaluru, Dr. B.V. Vasanthakumar from Mysuru, and Prof. Morabad Mallikarjuna will present thought-provoking lectures on Kannada literature and its evolving legacy.
The Legacy of the Sammelanas
Over the decades, both the Sarva Dharma Sammelana and the Sahitya Sammelana have become cornerstones of the Lakshadeepotsava. The late Ratnavarma Heggade celebrated the silver jubilee of these conferences in 1957, followed by the golden and platinum jubilees under the stewardship of the present Dharmadhikari, Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, in 1982 and 2007, respectively. These events have consistently enriched the intellectual and cultural fabric of Karnataka.
A Celebration of Unity and Enlightenment
By integrating spiritual dialogue and literary exploration into its festivities, Dharmasthala ensures that the Lakshadeepotsava is more than a celebration—it is a catalyst for personal and societal transformation. The Sarva Dharma Sammelana teaches respect for all beliefs, while the Sahitya Sammelana nurtures a deep connection to language and culture. Together, they embody the spirit of Dharmasthala, a sacred space where faith, knowledge, and art converge to light the path of unity and enlightenment.
