Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Mar 15: “Thirty-two years ago, I was an MA student at Mumbai University, and Prof G N Upadhyaya was my mentor. Today, it is a privilege to share the stage with him. During my student days, I volunteered at literary events and wondered when I would receive similar recognition. Today, returning to my alma mater and experiencing this honour fills me with joy. The Kannada department at Mumbai University is a model department, and literature has the power to unite people beyond linguistic and geographical boundaries. Literature spreads positive messages, and I admire Dr Suresh Rao’s passion for Gokula. Visiting Gokula yesterday and witnessing its magnificent architecture and intricate wood carvings was a delightful experience. Truly, Gokula, a place every Indian must see, is here in Mumbai,” said Prof Dr M P Srinath, president of Kannada Sahitya Parishat, Dakshina Kannada district.
As part of the centenary celebrations, the BSKBA (Gokula) Association organized a literary and cultural event in collaboration with the Kannada department of Mumbai University. The programme was held on Saturday at the Kavivarya Kusumagraj Marathi Bhasha Bhavan Auditorium in Kalina, Santacruz (East), Mumbai.
The event was presided over by Dr Suresh S Rao Kateel, president of BSKBA Association, in the presence of Prof G N Upadhyaya, head of the Kannada department at Mumbai University. Renowned playwright and theater artiste Dr Sripad Bhat was the chief guest. Other dignitaries on the stage included BSKBA vice president Avinash Shastri, secretary A P K Pothi, and treasurer C A Haridas Bhat.
As part of the celebrations, Dr G N Upadhyaya guided the release of two books:
‘Shatamanada Yana’ (Journey of a Century) – Kannada version by Pratibha Rao, a Kannada department research scholar.
‘Centennial Odyssey’ – English version.
Additionally, a book on Dr Sudha Murthy's literary contributions was also released.
Dr Sripad Bhat spoke about theatre and literature, recalling Puthina’s play on Gokula's departure and H S Murthy’s 'Kamsayana', both of which depict Krishna's journey. He emphasized the need for art, culture, and literature in modern urban life, stating that organizations like Gokula play a crucial role in preserving cultural values.
Prof G N Upadhyaya highlighted Krishna’s presence in literature across India, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, citing Purandaradasa’s compositions. He noted that Krishna, metaphorically, remains in Mumbai, especially in Kalina Campus, under Dr Suresh Rao’s dedicated leadership.
Dr Suresh Rao, in his presidential address, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the celebrations and emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy of Gokula through the centenary journey.
On this occasion, Dr Suresh S. Rao announced the establishment of a centenary memorial award. Special achievers in Yakshagana, literature, and cultural contributions, including Prakash Paniyur, Ashok Pakkal, Mitra Venkataraj, Jagadish Acharya, Madhusudan Rao, and Srinivas Jokatte, were honoured. Dr G N Upadhyaya and Pratibha Rao were also felicitated.
The event also featured a cultural program directed by Dr Sripad Bhat, with performances by Pandit Vishwanath Hiremath, Sandesh Hiremath, and Shravan Kulkarni, who presented a literary musical narrative.
Several dignitaries and association members attended, including BSKBA joint secretary Chitra Melmane, Women’s Wing president Sahana Pothi, Youth Wing president Prashanth Herle, Gokula Bhajana Mandali chairman I K Prema S Rao, and Kala Vrinda president Vinodini Rao. Former presidents K Subbanna Rao, Krishna Manjarabettu, Deepak Shivattaya, and B Ramananda Rao were also present.
Ramavithala Kalluraya and Ganesh Bhat conducted the stage proceedings. The event began with a prayer by Shailini Rao, Sahana Pothi, Kala Bhagavath, Vinay Ananthakrishna, and Sushila Devadiga. Senior writer Mitra Venkataraj welcomed the gathering, while Shailini A Rao narrated the 100-year journey of BSKBA (Gokula).
Nalin Prasad and Vikram Joshi introduced the books, and Dr Poornima S Shetty, assistant professor of Kannada, hosted the programme. C A Haridas Bhat delivered the vote of thanks.