Daijiworld Media Network – Kasargod
Kasargod, Jun 23: The dream of transforming the residence of Rashtrakavi Manjeshwar Govinda Pai, the first Kannada poet to receive the title of ‘Rashtrakavi’, into a major cultural and literary centre has suffered a setback due to years of neglect and inadequate maintenance.
The memorial, established through the joint efforts of the Karnataka and Kerala governments, was envisioned as a tribute to Govinda Pai’s contribution to Kannada literature. However, the prestigious project, built at a cost of several crores of rupees, is now facing serious challenges due to administrative delays and poor upkeep.
The ‘Bhavanika’ Lalithakala Rangamandira, a major auditorium constructed to host cultural programmes, has reportedly remained unused for a long time. The building, which was inaugurated in 2017 by Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan and then Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, is now affected by termite infestation due to a lack of regular maintenance.
The guest houses built near the memorial have also been left unattended. The premises are overgrown with wild bushes and weeds, making the facilities almost inaccessible. The library, which was expected to become a hub for literature enthusiasts, has also lost its significance as regular activities and book distribution have come to a halt.
According to Govinda Pai Memorial Committee secretary Umesh Salian, several official procedures are still pending. The auditorium is reportedly yet to receive the necessary panchayat clearance and door numbers. Around Rs 1 crore is required to complete the pending works and resolve administrative issues.
The staff working at the memorial are also facing hardships. The few employees, including a supervisor and a cleaning assistant, have reportedly not received their salaries for the past 11 months. The delay in salary payments has affected their ability to continue maintaining the premises.
The project received financial support from various sources. The Karnataka government contributed funds during different periods, including Rs 50 lac during the tenure of S M Krishna and Rs 3 crore during Siddaramaiah’s tenure. The Kerala government provided Rs 1.50 crore, while CSR contributions came from BPCL, MRPL, and ONGC.
Despite receiving financial assistance, the memorial continues to struggle due to a lack of coordination between government departments and the authorities responsible for its management.
Cultural activists and local residents have urged immediate action to restore the memorial. They have suggested conducting regular cultural programmes, reopening the facilities to visitors, clearing the overgrown areas, settling staff dues, and ensuring proper maintenance.
The Govinda Pai Memorial, which was envisioned as a symbol of the Kannada language and culture, now awaits attention to regain its lost glory and become the vibrant literary centre it was meant to be.