Mangaluru: District Minister in-charge, Ramanath Rai laid foundation stone to Kudmul Ranga Rao Memorial community hall along with MLA JR Lobo and Mayor Jacintha Vijay Alfred near the ZP School, Babugudde here, on February 24.
After the foundation stone was laid, a Puja was performed at the spot. An inaugural function was also held and was inaugurated by Ramanath Rai by lighting the traditional lamp along with other dignitaries.
Kudmul Ranga Rao fought for the rights of Dalits, though he was born in a Brahmin family. He played a prominent role in building a Bhajan Mandir and a school for educating Dalits.
Rai said, “Pain can be understood only by those who feel it and Kudmul Ranga Rao felt the pain of the Dalits. He worked hard to bring social equality and succeeded in bringing up their status. There was a time when a woman leader or a leader from the Dalit community was unheard of, but today we have such leaders among us and people like Kudmul Ranga Rao are the reason behind it. We should never forget such great people; it is because of such people that people of the lower class can live a dignified life.”
He further said, “There were many issues that came up while building a memorial for Dr BR Ambedkar. As a District Minister in-charge I worked hard and have made sure that the same piece of land is used to build a memorial for the great Dalit icon. I have also sent a proposal of Rs 12 crore towards the construction expenses to the cabinet.”
Lobo said, “When Minister for Social Welfare, H Anjaneya visited Mangaluru, he sanctioned Rs 1 crore towards the building of the community hall as a memorial to Kudmul Ranga Rao. Though there were many hurdles initially, we have now successfully resolved all of them. The MCC also granted additional Rs 1 crore towards the project from 24.10% of its funds. The hall will be completed in 15 months and will be a tribute to the great soul.”
Mayor Jacintha Vijay Alfred said, “MCC and ministers have come together to build this hall. I wish the Dalit community prospers.”
Corporators Prakash Salian and Shailaja also spoke on the occasion.