Presiding over the inaugural of a seminar on “the complete works of Vaidehi” held under the joint aegis of the Academy and the Kannada Department of Mangalore University at Mangalagangothri on Friday, he said the writings of the Kendra Sahitya Akademi winner have such a wonderful weightage and quality that they cannot be categorised into certain narrow compartments.
“One gets the feeling of listening to a ‘bhaavagitha’ after reading a story of Vaidehi. They can be rather called ‘bhaava kathegalu’. The language and the presentation of her stories are simple and intimate,” he noted. Though the award winning anthology of stories ‘Krauncha Pakshigalu’ is small in size, it reflects strong sensitivities, he added.
Prof Krishnaiah said “Vaidehi’s literature is not feminist. ‘Isms’ are not important to her. Though there are protests, irony and contrast in her writings, they are expressed with a silent anger. Emphasis on women sensitivities is the speciality of Vaidehi’s works.”
He said the Academy would publish the proceedings of the two-day seminar in the form of a book. “Books make our attitude rich, but not the wealth of the Bellary mine lords. The acquisition of Hampi varsity land for Krishnadevraya Trust is just like disabling the limbs of Kannada,” he regretted.
‘Influence of tradition’
Veteran critic Dr B N Sumithra Bai in her address said “Vaidehi has been influenced by the tradition. Her tradition is that of M K Indira, Triveni and Vani.”
“Vaidehi staunchly loved life. Living in a family system itself,
she tried to reflect the pro-women sensitivities. She herself has admitted that she is from a family tradition,” Sumithra Bai said.
“Vaidehi did not openly take part in any dharnas or rallies, but she has reflected the essence of all movements of her time in her literature. She has stood apolitical,” the critic observed. Vaidehi was honoured on the occasion.
Dean of Science Faculties Prof K K Achary inaugurated the seminar. Registrar Prof K Chinnappa Gowda, Kannada Department Chairperson Dr Sabiha Bhumigowda, Karnataka Sahitya Academy Registrar V N Mallikarjunaswamy and member convener Ambathanaya Mudradi were present.
DH News Service
