Kodagu's contribution to Kannada literature immense: Writer

The eigth edition of the taluk-level Kannada literary meet got off to a colourful start in Kaveri Kalakshtetra on Saturday.

In his inaugural address, the literary meet chairman B A Shamshuddin said, “The contributions of Kodagu in the field of literature dates back to hundreds of years when a strong foundation was laid with notable contributions.”

“Earlier, only a few women writers evinced interest in literature but thanks to the encouragement given by Kannada Sahitya Parishat, the number of women writers have increased now,” he said.

Stating that langauge and literature are entwined, Shamshuddin pointed out that the development of language is always in sync with literature. Similarly, even the development of Kannada langauge hinges on literature, he said.

He also cautioned against attempts being made to portray Kannada as useless, one that offers no rewards. While every language has its significance, one should develop love and affection towards the land and the language, he said.

Shamshuddin urged educational institutions to ensure that students renew their interest in Kannada. He suggested that children should be engaged in bringing out handwritten papers and wallpaper activities that existed earlier in schools.

While the dwindling interest among teachers is also a matter of concern, langauge teachers should make efforts to attract students towards literature, he said.

MLA M P Appachu Ranjan said that due preference should be given to Kannada. “It is only during such literary meets that one can be assured of a secular atmosphere without any party affiliations,” he said.

Earlier Deputy Commissioner Richard Vincent D’Souza flagged off a procession at old fort premises.

Legislators K G Bopaiah, Veena Acchaiah, Janapada Parishat district president B G Anantha Shayana, Kannada Sahitya Parishat district president Lokesh Sagar, Taluk president Kudekal Santosh, City Municipal Council president Kaveramma Somanna, Thekkade Shobha Mohan and others were also present.