Two-day Kannada Sammelana begins in Shivamogga; event highlights role of literature in promoting unity, peace

The two-day Kannada Sammelana in Shivamogga celebrates literature's power to foster unity and peace among communities.

Noted critic M.S. Ashadevi stated that literature could be the ultimate medicine to restore the “garden of peace for all communities”, where people live with mutual respect and love.

Ms. Ashadevi spoke after inaugurating the 20th Shivamogga district Kannada Sahitya Sammelana, a two-day event organised by Shivamogga Kannada Sahitya Parishat, in Shivamogga on Friday (March 13).

Referring to the rich heritage of Shivamogga district, the writer said that the district has contributed many great talents to the field of literature. “We feel proud of Kuvempu, a great poet from the district. However, that is not enough. We must follow his ideals," she said.

Similarly, writer-journalist P. Lankesh, socialist leader Shantaveri Gopala Gowda, and many talents from the district influenced masses through their writing and the way they led their lives. “They all fought for the right to speak the truth. We all must cultivate the quality of standing by the truth; it elevates our character. Let humanity bloom again in the light of literature,” she remarked.

Vijayashree, the writer who has been chosen to preside over the event, stated that rising calls for separation or division of the State were not good for the unit of Kannada-speaking people. She stressed the need for genuine concern and emotional unity among Kannadigas. “The Kannadigas should have job opportunities so that they can lead a peaceful life and prosper," the writer said.

Earlier in the day, a procession was taken out from Gopala Circle to the Sahitya Grama, where the event was held. Shivamogga Urban Development Authority chairperson H.S. Sundaresh flagged off the procession.