The 101st birthday of Kannada writer Kayyara Kinhanna Rai was celebrated by literary enthusiasts at his residence in Peradala, Kasargod, on Monday.
A host of dignitaries from political, social and literary fields greeted Rai on his birthday and felicitated him. Rai is popularly known as “Gadinada Sahithi” (litterateur of the border area).
The centenarian felt that regionality should not be obstacle for the pride of Kannadigas. Tuluvas and Malayaalis in a border area like Kasargod are Kannadigas.
Though his mother tongue is Tulu, his major contribution has been for Kannada language.
Dakshina Kannada district in-charge and minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment B Ramanath Rai said that Kayyara truely deserves ‘Karnataka Rathna’ award.
Kayyara’s first grandson Gautham Rai, who spoke to Deccan Herald said his grandfather is a true Gandhian and disciplinarian to the core. “Even to this day, grandpa wears only Khadi.
He was in the pink of robust health till he turned 90,” he said. Rai has 8 children, 14 grandsons and two great grandsons.
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