Shivarudrappa conferred 'Rashtrakavi' title

Bangalore, Dec 15 (UNI) Veteran poet and litterateur Dr G S Shivarudrappa, the tallest living literary figure in Karnataka, was today conferred with the Rashtrakavi title by the State Government.

In a glittering ceremony here, attended by eminent figures in literary and cultural fields, Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy honoured the poet by presenting him with an impressive statue of Goddess Saraswati, a citation and a gold medal.

Born in 1926 in picturesque Shikapura town in Shimoga district, Dr Shivarudrappa had spent over five decades teaching Kannada in Mysore, Bangalore and Osmania universities, besides penning scores of memorable poems, masterpieces in prose as well as notable literary analysis. He had been honoured with various titles and awards, including Soviet Land Nehru Award, Central Sahitya Akademi Award and Karnataka Rajyotsava Award. He was also the former President of the Kannada Sahitya Parishat.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Kumaraswamy said it was a great occasion to honour Dr Shivarudrappa with the highest literary award during the 50th year of formation of Karnataka. The Government was committed to preserve and promote Kannada culture and bring to an end regional imbalances.

Dr Shivarudrappa was a disciple of legendary writer K V Puttappa, popularly known as Kuvempu, who was the last literary figure to get the title more than three decades ago.

Speaking after receiving the honour, he said he was inspired by the life and works of Kuvempu and dedicated the title to his Guru.

The award also reflected the immense love Kannada people had in him.

''The State Government by honouring me has in fact honoured Kannada language and the State as a whole.'' UNI RS GD HVB RL BD2201