Bengaluru, 18th October 2024: The Karnataka flag was prominently displayed alongside the Indian and New Zealand flags at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Thursday, an event celebrated by many Kannadigas as a mark of regional unity.
A user named Harish Itagi shared a photo on X (formerly Twitter) showing the Karnataka flag in the backdrop of the India vs. New Zealand Test match. He stated, “The flag is a symbol of Kannada unity,” highlighting its role in showcasing regional pride during the event.
This announcement follows Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s directive that all institutions, including IT companies, factories, and educational establishments, must fly the Kannada flag on November 1 in honour of Karnataka Rajyotsava.
“November 1 is a significant day for Karnataka,” Shivakumar remarked. “As the Bengaluru development minister, I am instructing all businesses and educational centres to display the Karnataka flag. It is essential to acknowledge this occasion, regardless of whether cultural events are held.”
Karnataka Rajyotsava, celebrated annually on November 1, marks the unification of Kannada-speaking regions that formed the state in 1956. Shivakumar emphasized that this year’s celebration would reinforce the importance of the Kannada language and the state’s cultural identity. He pointed out the need to highlight Kannada pride, especially in Bengaluru, where nearly half of the population comes from other states.
This initiative aligns with the state’s ongoing efforts to promote Kannada. Earlier this year, the Karnataka legislative assembly enacted a law requiring that 60 % of all business signboards display Kannada. This legislation, known as the Kannada Language Comprehensive Development (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aims to enhance the use of Kannada in commercial signage, building on a 2022 law designed to strengthen its visibility.