Karnataka Rajyotsava which is also called - Kannada Day, Karnataka Formation Day, or Karnataka Formation Day is celebrated on November 1 every year to commemorate the day when all the Kannada dominant regions were combined to form the Karnataka state on Nov 1, 1956.
In the state of Karnataka, Rajyotsava Day is marked as a Government holiday and the festival is celebrated by Kannadigas throughout the world. The entire state celebrates the festival of Karnataka Rajyotsava with great fun and joy and wishes happy Karnataka Rajyotsava to each other.
Along with the colorful events, the annual Rajyotsava Awards are also presented by the State Government to celebrate the day.
What is Karnataka Rajyotsava? Find the History
So, what is Karnataka Rajyotsava exactly, and its significance?
Aluru Venkata Rao, a renowned Indian historian, and writer wanted to form the state of Karnataka through the Karnataka Ekikarana movement. In 1950, India became a republic country, and different provinces were formed based on languages, and this turned out to be the merger of all the Kannada-speaking localities of South India on November 1, 1956, to establish a Kannada-speaking state.
Initially, the newly-formed state was named Mysore but the name wasn’t accepted by some regions like North Karnataka. Finally, in the year 1973, the state of all Kannada was renamed Karnataka on1st November from the Kannada word “Karunadu” meaning “lofty land.”
This is why we celebrate Karnataka Rajyotsava on this day. The historical day dates back to November 1, 1956, when all the Kannada language-speaking regions merged to form the state of Karnataka. The day is celebrated with grand festivities and colorful events. People across the state and Kannadigas living across the world celebrate the day with great joy and enthusiasm.
When is Karnataka Rajyotsava?
Karnataka Rajyotsava date is November 1. On this date in 1956, Kannada-speaking regions in southern India merged to form a new state which is known today as Karnataka, the state that got its current name in 1973.
About Karnataka
Karnataka is the southwestern region of India and is one of the most prosperous states in India. The capital of Karnataka is Bangalore. On 1 November 1956, Karnataka state was formed and at that time, the state was known as Mysore. In 1973, it was renamed Karnataka.
The population density of Karnataka state is 319 per sq. km while the state is known for its tremendous progress in several fields including education, industry, agriculture, literature, and tourism.
Celebration of Karnataka Rajyotsava
The Karnataka Rajyotsava Day is celebrated with great joy and fun by people all over the state to commemorate the creation of the state on this day. They wish happy Karnataka Rajyotsava to each other and wear red & yellow colored traditional attire.
At several strategic places, Kannada flags are hoisted and the Karnataka anthem “Jaya Bharatha Jananiya Tanujate” is recited. The State Government of Karnataka will recognize the people for their significant contribution to the development of the state and distribute the Rajyotsava awards.
The colorful Karnataka day is also accompanied by traditional performances of folk artists in the fields of drama, dance, and classical music.
About Rajyotsava Awards
To observe the foundation day of the state of Karnataka, the Government of Karnataka also announces & presents the honor list for the Rajyotsava awards. It is the second-highest Civilian Honor in Karnataka, right after Karnataka Ratna.
The award, conferred by the State Government, was instituted in 1966 to recognize people in various fields such as agriculture, environment, education, journalism, judiciary, literature, etc. Karnataka day is a public holiday in the state, followed by a flag hoisting ceremony and address by the Chief Minister and the Governor of the State.
Kannada Rajyotsava - Flag & Its Significance
Ma Ramamurthy, son of well-known litterateur and freedom fighter Veerakesari Seetharama Shastri, was the first who formalized the idea of hoisting the yellow and red flag for Karnataka State. He was born in Nanjangud in 1918 and worked as an editor of a newspaper, “Kannada Yovajana”. During that time, non-Kannadigas were preferred in Karnataka which compelled academics and writers to protect the interests of the state.
He showed his opposition in the form of raising state flags that further signifies the symbol of identity. He created a yellow flag and red flag design in 1965. These colors demonstrate bravery and harmony. He used this initiative to represent the political party he founded, Kannada Paksha.
How is Kannada Rajyotsava Celebrated?
Nov 1 Karnataka Rajyotsava is a day marked with grand festivities and colorful events. The association members of the society usually organize the event. They also invite residents and help with the decoration. Here is how this day is celebrated in society. Take a look:
1. Theme-based Attire & Costume Contest
A red & yellow theme is selected to make everyone look traditional and deliver the vibes of brotherhood & harmony as these colors represent the Karnataka flag. All the residents dress up according to the theme and enjoy it to the fullest. Not only this but a costume competition is also held and various games are played. Prizes are awarded to the winner of the best costume contest.
2. Flag Hoisting
The traditional flag of Karnataka is hoisted on the day of Rajyotsava along with the chanting of the state anthem. All the community members are required to attend the hoisting to embrace the vibes of unity and brotherhood.
3. Cultural Events
To celebrate this major historical commemoration, cultural programs are organized to get people to participate, enjoy & wish each other a happy Karnataka Rajyotsava. It includes a fancy dress competition, dancing, theater, painting, etc. A Prize distribution ceremony also takes place for the winners of the competition. Various stalls are set up including clothing, the Karnataka flags, themed badges, and other accessories. To provide refreshments, different types of food stalls are also there providing snacks & meals.
Final Words!!
Now you know why Kannada Rajyotsava is celebrated on November 1st and its significance to the society & state. The day is celebrated as a mark of respect, gratitude, and enjoyment. People all over the state and Kannadigas living abroad celebrate it with utmost enthusiasm.
The Kannada Rajyotsava 2022 is an ideal time to experience South India’s remarkable history. You get to see the finest of everything throughout this month.
FAQs on Kannada Rajyotsava in Karnataka 2022 - Everything You Need To Know
1. Why is Kannada Rajyotsava celebrated on November 1st?
The day is celebrated to commemorate the union of all the Kannada-speaking regions of South India into one state in 1956 on this day, known as Karnataka today.
2. When was Karnataka Rajyotsava started?
The day was started in 1956 when all the Kannada language-speaking regions of southwestern India were merged to form the state of Karnataka.
3. How many years of Kannada Rajyotsava is this?
With the Kannada Rajyotsava 2022, Karnataka will commemorate its 66th founding.
