Rons Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 27: "Language is an inseparable part of human life, and for Kannadigas, language is like a mother," said Praveen Bhoja Shetty, president of Bunts Sangha, Mumbai.

He was speaking at the first All-India Central Kannada literary conference held in Mumbai. Shetty stated that such a conference helps create awareness and a strong resolve among Kannadigas to uphold the dignity and pride of the Kannada language in their lives.

“Not everyone can become a writer. Only those who have earned virtue in their past lives can become writers,” he said. “It is my fortune to participate in this conference as the president of an organisation that represents nearly four lakh Bunts in Mumbai. Words must arise from thought. Speech should carry a wave of warmth, draw people together with harmony, carry the grace of a smile, reflect the value of life. Speech should be gentle, like pearls, and beneficial to all,” he expressed.

The conference was held on Sunday at the Dr Sanjeeva Shetty Stage, constructed alongside the main entrance of the Mysore Association Auditorium, in the Greater Mumbai region.
The event was organised by the Maharashtra chapter of the Central Kannada Literary Forum, Bengaluru, under the presidency of Dr G N Upadhya, head of the Kannada department, University of Mumbai.

Praveen Bhoja Shetty was the chief guest, and he formally inaugurated the conference by offering flowers to a portrait of Mother Bhuvaneshwari and delivering a keynote address.

The literary conference was presided over by well-known author N Shailaja Hasan, and was formally inaugurated by veteran writer from Uttara Kannada Dr H S Anupama, who lit the ceremonial lamp and conveyed her best wishes.

Shalini Rudramuni, state vice-president, and Madhusudan T R, president of Kannada Kala Kendra, Mumbai, participated as guest dignitaries.

Former president of the Karnataka Sangha Mumbai, Manohar M Kori, was also present.
Various achievers were honoured with national and state-level awards, including the Sharana Sankula Ratna National Award, presented to Dr Sunita M Shetty (literature), Shyan N Shetty (social service), and S K Sundar (multitalented field).'

Additionally, the Karnataka Shiromani State Awards were presented to achievers in different fields, including Vishweshwar N Meti (state president), Dr H K Haseena, and Shivayogi Sannamani, among others.

“This literary conference is a blessing for Mumbai’s Kannadigas,” said Dr G N Upadhya in his presidential address. “Though Karnataka has a government, more than 20 academies, and the Kannada Sahitya Parishat, it is painful that not a single event of this kind has been conducted in Mumbai, despite the presence of more than 20 lac Kannadigas here. Such neglect by the Karnataka government is unacceptable. For two centuries, Kannadigas in Mumbai have preserved and fostered the identity of Kannada language, literature, and culture. Mumbai holds a significant history in terms of Kannada contribution and service. The cultural bond between Karnataka and Maharashtra is strong. This conference complements our shared cultural roots and pluralistic values.”

Senior journalist and author Srinivas Jokatte released the publications of four well-known writers from the state. A literary symposium, chaired by Dr B C Nagaraj, was also held. Renowned theatre artist Dr Bharathkumar Polipu delivered a lecture on the topic “Maharashtra’s Contribution to Kannada Literature.”

A A Darga delivered a thought-provoking speech.

A poetry recital session, presided over by Shaila Nagaraj, featured readings by around 24 poets, who presented their compositions to the audience.

The programme commenced with a Kannada patriotic folk song performance by Sushila Devadiga and troupe. Dr Amresh Patil, Maharashtra’s honorary president, extended the welcome address. Kotresh S Uppar, the founding president, delivered the introductory remarks.

Mallikarjuna Badiger introduced the guests. H S Basavaraj shared insights about the conference. The awardees were introduced by Malathi Chandrakant and Dr Durgappa Y Kotiyawar.

The event was compered by Saroj Amati, Vani Shetty Moodbidri, Balachandra Devadiga, and Parmananda Dalapati, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Dayananda Poojary.