Kannada Rajyotsava 2019 Celebrations: Read formation day history and facts

Karnataka Rajyotsava today. Yes! Kannadigas all over the world are celebrating the formation of the Karnataka state. It was way back in 1956 that all the Kannada speaking states across South India were merged to form Karnataka. November 1 marks Kannada Rajyotsava or Karnataka Formation day. It is not only a public holiday today but also special in the sense that the government confers Rajyotsava award on talented people in various fields for their contribution.

Kannada Rajyotsava history, Karnataka Flag

In 1956 on November 1, all the Kannada speaking regions in Madras and Mumbai presidencies along with Hyderabad were merged to form what is called as the Mysore state. It was only in 1976 when Devaraj Aras was the chief minister that the name was changed to Karnataka on November 1.

The most unique aspect of Karnataka Rajyotsava 2019 celebrations would be of course the state flag bearing the colours yellow and red with a picture of Bhuvaneswari who is considered the mother of Karnataka.

Karnataka Rajyotsava celebrations 2019

On November 1 every year, kannadigas across the world pay their respects to the language and state by hoisting the Karnataka flag and sing the state anthem 'Jaya Bharatha Jananiya Thanujate...Jaya hai Karnataka mate.'

Kannada Rajyotsava Awards 2019 controversy

Kannada Rajyotsava Awards are an annual event where some 64 eminent personalities from various fields are felicitated by the chief minister. Karnataka chief minister hoists the state flag followed by an address from the governor. Students from various schools perform cultural activities including rendering Kannada songs and dance to Kannada numbers which is part of the Karnataka Rajyotsava celebrations.

There is a controversy surrounding this year's Karnataka Rajyotsava Award recipients. A PIL has been filed at the Karnataka High Court stating that the state has violated the norms in selection of recipients by choosing awardees from the ruling party. The High Court is yet to hear the petition.

Karnataka State facts

Karnataka is one of the largest states in India with a population of 60 million. Bengaluru, the capital city is called the Silicon Valley of the country because of the IT companies across the city. The city is more cosmopolitan and has a huge chunk of non-kannada speaking population. The place is known for pubs, ITES companies, educational institutions and a great Cosmopolitan culture. The migrant population has made Bengaluru one of the most vibrant cities not to mention the most preferred place to live.

However, the city has lost its sheen in the recent days because of the traffic congestion and heavy population. The real estate is booming with land prices going through the roof. The cost of living in Bengaluru is quite high but so are the salaries offered by companies who match as per the standard of living.

In terms of area, Karnataka is the sixth largest state in India. With a contribution of Rd 16 lakh crore to the country's GDP, Karnataka is the fourth largest economy in India. BS Yediyurappa is the current chief minister of Karnataka. He is expected to open a cultural show at the Kanteerva Stadium today as part of Karnataka Rajyotsava celebrations in the city.