Noted writer Vyasaraya Ballal cremated

Bangalore, Jan 31 (UNI) The mortal remains of noted Kannada writer Vyasaraya Ballala, who died at his residence following illness last night, were cremated in the city today.

He was 85. He is survived by one son and two daughters.

Dr U R Ananthamurthy, M Chidananda Murthy and other wellknown Kannada writers visited his residence and paid rich tributes to the departed soul.

Mr Ballala was known for his revolutionary thinking and had written more than 25 books including novels, 100 short stories, politics, two plays and childrens' books.

His novel 'Uttarayana' is acclaimed as his best work, while two other books 'Bandaya' and 'Manjari' received wide critical acclaim. 'Bandaya' and 'Hejje' brought him Kendra Sahitya Academy awards.

The writer, who lived in Mumbai for five decades, had contributed short stories for Akashvani-Mumbai. He also served as the editor of 'Nudi', a Kannada weekly published by Kamaladevi Chattopadhay.

He was a prominent member of Karnataka Sangha in Mumbai and also contributed to the columns in the dailies.

After his retirement, Mr Ballala settled in Bangalore where he continued to write.

Mr Ballala was a disappointed man lately as his name was not considered by the Central Office of Kannada Sahitya Parishat (KSP) for the presidentship of 74th 'Akhila Bharatha Kannada Sahitya Sammelan' held in Udupi last month.

He was born in Ambalapady near Udupi in 1923. His childhood was tough and after his matriculation he went to Mumbai and worked as a steno in a private company.

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