Mumbai, (The Hindu): Priyanka Mary Francis, Deputy Commissioner, said on Thursday that Udupi district was known for its diversities in languages and culture.

She was speaking after unfurling the national flag during the Rajyotsava Day celebrations organised by the district administration, here.

Since the model code of conduct is in force for the bypoll to Shivamogga parliamentary seat, Rajyotsava was celebrated in a simple but dignified manner. Byndoor Assembly segment in Udupi district is part of Shivamogga parliamentary seat.

Ms. Francis said that Kannada, Tulu, Konkani and other languages flourished in the district. People of all religions and castes lived in harmony here. Kundagannada or Kundapur Kannada is the special Kannada of the district. A lot of work was being done to collect the folk literature of Kundapur Kannada, she said.

The Tulu lexicon project done by the Govinda Pai Research Centre here was lauded by scholars throughout the country. Sri Vadiraja Swami of Sode Mutt, who provided shelter to Sri Kanakadasa here, also contributed to Haridasa Sahitya.

Besides culture, the district had famous tourism spots and was also known for its educational and banking institutions, Ms. Francis said.

Cultural programmes such as ‘Kanadada Ravi Mudi Banda’ by students of Mukunda Kripa English Medium School, ‘Karunade Kai Bachide Node’ by Indrali English Medium School, ‘Kannadada Maathu Chanda’ by Alevoor Shantiniketana Higher Primary School, and ‘O Barisu Kannada Dimdimava’ by Malpe Sri Narayanaguru English Medium School added colour to the Rajyotsava celebrations. The march-past was yet another attraction.