On 1st September, the All India Institute of Speech and Hearing in Mysuru, Karnataka, marked its diamond jubilee with grand celebrations. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, while addressing the event, asked President Droupadi Murmu, “Do you know Kannada?” Her humble and heartfelt response drew warm applause and is now winning hearts.
President Murmu wins hearts with her response to “Do you know Kannada”
President Droupadi Murmu marked her gracious presence at the diamond jubilee celebrations of the All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH) in Mysuru, Karnataka, on 1st September. The event celebrated six decades of service in the field of speech and hearing sciences, and her presence as the Chief Guest added great significance to the occasion.
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During the ceremony, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, after delivering his speech in Kannada, playfully asked the dignitaries if they could understand the language. Looking at President Murmu, he posed the question,
“Do you know Kannada?”
His light-hearted query set the tone for a memorable exchange.
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Later, while addressing the gathering, President Murmu replied with humility and warmth. She said,
“I would like to tell the honourable Chief Minister that although Kannada is not my mother tongue, I deeply cherish all the languages, cultures, and traditions of my country. I hold great respect and regard for each of them.”
She also added that she would make efforts to learn Kannada.
Her graceful words went viral, winning hearts across Karnataka and beyond. The moment reflected not just her simplicity and respect for diversity, but also the true spirit of a President who embodies unity while embracing every regional culture of India.
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Key takeaway from the event
During its diamond jubilee celebrations, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the importance of combining technological progress with human sensitivity, urging “innovation with compassion” to uplift the lives of the needy. AIISH (All India Institute of Speech and Hearing) has been at the forefront of developing affordable diagnostic and therapeutic tools, and the Karnataka government’s announcement of earmarking Rs 32 crore under the Shravana Sanjeevini scheme for cochlear implantation further strengthens its mission.
The institute is also engaged in community outreach, training professionals, and creating awareness to ensure that speech and hearing care reaches even the most economically disadvantaged sections of society.
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About AIISH, All India Institute of Speech and Hearing
The All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH), established in 1966 in Mysuru, is a premier institute dedicated to education, research, and clinical services in the field of communication disorders. Over the past six decades, it has grown into a centre of excellence, offering specialized courses in audiology, speech-language pathology, and hearing sciences while also catering to the rehabilitation needs of thousands of patients across the country.
Its work has not only provided relief to individuals with speech and hearing impairments but has also advanced India’s position in global research on communication disorders.
Today, AIISH stands not just as an academic institution but also as a symbol of inclusive development, proving how science, when blended with empathy, can transform lives.
What are your thoughts on the graceful reply of President Murmu? Do share your thoughts via the comments below.
