Kollegal, December 12, 2018: Dr. N. Y. Srinivasaiah, Assistant Professor at the Kannada Department, P.E.S. College, Mandya, described Kuvempu as not only a great poet but also a social metaphor of literary origin and a pro-social and cultural thinker. He referred to Kuvempu as a “mountain of talent” during his special lecture on “Kuvempu – Literature and Life” at JSS Women’s College in Mysuru. The lecture was organized by the ‘Sahitya Sangama’ on the occasion of Kuvempu’s 115th Birth Anniversary.
Dr. N. Y. Srinivasaiah stated, “Kuvempu was a mountain of talent in the literary world, while Dr. Rajkumar was nothing less in the cultural sector. The exceptional talents of these stalwarts continue to remind us of their unique contributions. Kuvempu became a great poet through his ‘Mahakavya’ (epic poetry), whereas Da. Ra. Bendre became a great poet without contributing a ‘Mahakavya’. Kuvempu was the first Kannada poet to win the prestigious ‘Jnanapeetha Award’. Today’s youth should be educated about the pro-social thoughts of such great poets through lecture programs like this.”
In his presidential address, Prof. Umesh, Principal of JSS Women’s College, highlighted that Kuvempu was the first Kannada poet to receive the esteemed ‘Jnanapeetha Award’, and the program marked the 50th anniversary of this milestone. Prof. Umesh emphasized Kuvempu’s literary journey, which began with the publication of ‘Amalana Kathe’ when he was a student. He further acknowledged Kuvempu’s contributions as a lecturer, professor, vice chancellor, as well as the numerous prestigious awards he received, including the State Literary Academy award, Padmabhushana, Karnataka Ratna, Nadoja, Pampa, and Rashtrakavi. Kuvempu was also honored with D.Litt. degrees by several universities, making him a role model for all.
Prof. M. Basavaraju, Head of the Kannada Department, and Prof. Smt. Roopashri were present on the dais during the lecture. The event was attended by lecturers and students who actively participated in the program.