Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, May 30: Eminent Kannada writer, poet, and literary scholar H S Venkateshamurthy, widely respected for his extensive contribution to Kannada literature, passed away early Friday morning at the age of 80. He breathed his last at a private hospital in Bengaluru at 7 am, following age-related ailments. He is survived by four sons.
A life dedicated to literature
Born in Hodigere village, Channagiri taluk of Davangere district, Venkateshamurthy, popularly known as HSV, began his illustrious academic career in 1973 as a Kannada professor at St Joseph's College of Commerce, Bengaluru. He retired in 2000 after nearly three decades of dedicated service.
HSV authored an impressive body of work spanning poetry, drama, novels, essays, children’s literature, translations, and literary criticism. His most celebrated poetry collections include Kriyaparva, Dryamarada Girigalu, Ethanthu Mugilu, Billuhabba in America, Nadithiradil, Uttarayana, Kannadiya Surya, and Vaidehi. His literary repertoire also includes powerful dramas such as Agnivarna, Chitrapata, Uriya Uyyale, and Manthare, and critically acclaimed novels like Tapi, Amanusharu, Kadiranakote, Agnimukhi, and Vedavati Nadiyalla.
He was honoured with several literary awards and was notably the president of the 85th All India Kannada Sahitya Sammelana held in Kalaburagi.
CM, HDK, R Ashoka offer condolences
Following the news of his demise, tributes poured in from political leaders, scholars, and literary enthusiasts.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, in a heartfelt tribute, said, “The demise of veteran writer H S Venkatesha Murthy is painful. The world of Kannada literature has lost a giant who contributed immensely across genres. His readership was vast, and his literary contributions will be remembered forever.”
Former CM and union minister H D Kumaraswamy said, “HSV’s departure is a great loss. He was not only a literary figure but also a cultural icon. Who can forget his soul-stirring lyric – ‘Lokada Kannige Radheyu is also a woman like everyone else’?”
Leader of Opposition R Ashoka, expressed sorrow on X (formerly Twitter): “The death of Dr H S Venkatesha Murthy is an irreparable loss to Kannada literature. He enriched the language with his creative brilliance. May his soul rest in peace, and may his family and admirers find strength during this difficult time.”
HSV’s demise marks the end of an era in Kannada literature. His works, known for their depth, cultural insight, and emotional resonance, have left an indelible mark on Karnataka’s literary landscape. From classrooms to Kannada Sahitya Sammelanas, from children's tales to critical essays, HSV lived and breathed Kannada literature.
As Karnataka mourns the loss of a beloved son of its soil, his literary legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.