Historian tells scholars to work on origin of Kannada language

Shimoga, Sep 13 (UNI) A renowned historian and former Chairman of Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR), New Delhi S Shattar today said the Kannada scholars should take up research on the origin of the Kannada language and script.

Talking to reporters here, Prof Shattar said the agitators, who were urging the Centre to give Classical Language status to Kannada should understand the place of the language in the literary field.

''It is a democratic country. There is no restriction in making agitation regarding any matter in our country. I have no objection to it,'' he added.

Taking objection to the claim that Tamil language was more ancient than Kannada, he said when there was no script for Tamil Language, how could it be possible for a Tamil literary work like Sangam washed away in gushing waters in the ancient time.

Kannada language had an influence on Tamil language and literature, he said.

Mr Kulandai Swamy of Tamil Nadu should not have objected to his work and he should withdraw his comment, Prof Shattar added.

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