Hubli, June 28, 2013: Over 15,000 students from Hubli-Dharwad are expected to participate in the 13-day annual ISKCON Heritage Fest at ISKCON temple at Rayapur from July 1.

Rajiv Lochan Dasa, president, ISKCON Hubli-Dharwad, told presspersons here on Thursday that it was meant to celebrate India’s vibrant culture and tradition.

“Revival of the Vedic culture, tradition and heritage, which seem to have been lost its relevance due to technological intervention is the main objective of the fest. It endeavours to bridge the cultural divide in this era of tech frenzy, increasing juvenile delinquency and stressed lifestyle of kids. The contests are open for the public,” he said.

When it was conducted for the first time in 2002, the number of participants was around 200. In 10 years, it went up to over 15,000.

Medals

Mr. Dasa said around 300 medals and over 50 trophies would be given away during the prize distribution and the school with best overall performance would be given a rolling trophy. Mementoes would be given for the school with highest participation and for teachers who trained winners, Mr. Rajiv Lochan Dasa said.

He said the fest was a platform for students to showcase their creativity and talent in drawing, dance, rangoli, Vedic quiz, singing and other art forms.

Deputy Commissioner of Dharwad Sameer Shukla will inaugurate the fest on July 1 at 10.30 a.m.

Source: The Hindu, DT. June 28, 2013.