Karnataka Considers Adding Ramayana to School Curriculum: CM Siddaramaiah Announces at Valmiki Jayanti

Bengaluru:

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Tuesday that the state government would evaluate incorporating 'Ramayana' and its author, 'Maharshi Valmiki', into the school curriculum across the state.

The announcement came during his address at the Valmiki Jayanti celebration held at the Banquet Hall of Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru.

Siddaramaiah indicated that former minister VS Ugrappa's request to include Maharshi Valmiki and the 'Ramayana' in school education would receive favorable consideration.

While speaking about the accomplishments of the Valmiki community, the Chief Minister emphasized that despite being denied formal education, Maharshi Valmiki composed the epic 'Ramayana', a work of universal importance. He encouraged all community members to prioritize education.

Siddaramaiah also highlighted that communities must secure their rights through organization and struggle, referencing influential figures like Ambedkar, Buddha, and Basavanna as examples.

Earlier that day, after offering floral tributes at Valmiki's statue at Shri Maharshi Valmiki Tapovan during Maharshi Valmiki Jayanti celebrations, Siddaramaiah described Valmiki to reporters as a rare literary genius known throughout the country.

The Chief Minister extended his greetings to the state's residents, noting that Valmiki Jayanti serves as a tribute to the great sage who, though born into the Shudra community, introduced the world to the remarkable Ramayana epic.

He mentioned that Valmiki's statue was installed in 2017 and emphasized that saints like Valmiki and Kanakadasa led socially responsible lives while teaching and exemplifying human values.

When questioned about ministerial representation for Nayaka community MLAs, Siddaramaiah indicated this would be addressed during a future cabinet reshuffle.

Regarding an incident where a shoe was thrown at the Chief Justice of India, Siddaramaiah acknowledged the Chief Justice's forgiveness as demonstrating his greatness. Nevertheless, the Chief Minister strongly condemned the act, describing it as the work of "Manuvadi elements".