Pejawar Swami against celebrating Tipu birth anniversary

Mangaluru: Vishwesha Theertha Swami of Pejawar Mutt in Udupi has opposed Karnataka government's decision to celebrate the birth anniversary of the 18th century legendary king Tipu Sultan on November 10.

"Tipu was a controversial person and celebrating his birthday could not be considered as a right practice. It will be better for government to drop the idea as both Christians and Hindus were against the celebration," he told reporters yesterday at Udupi.

Defending his government's decision celebrate the birth anniversary of Tipu Sultan, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had yesterday termed the opposition towards it as a "conspiracy" by RSS and other communal forces to disturb the harmony in society.

Meanwhile, members of Karnataka Gaurava Samrakshana Samiti staged a dharna in front of Clock Tower here yesterday to protest against the state government's decision.
Rajashekharananda Swami of Gurupura Vajradehi Mutt, who addressed the protestors, said "it is improper on the part of the government to celebrate Tipu Jayanthi as he was an intolerant ruler who destroyed many temples."

In a separate protest by Mangaluru United Christian Association, its leader Robert Rosario alleged that Tipu Sultan was responsible for destruction of many churches in the coastal region and harassment to Christians during his rule.

The UCA also submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah through the district administration.