Renowned Kannada Writer Na D'Souza Passes Away at 87, Leaving a Legacy of Literature and Advocacy

Renowned Kannada author Na DSouza passed away at a hospital in Mangaluru on Sunday. He was 87 years old. Sources close to his family confirmed that he had been suffering from health issues and was admitted to the hospital where he died. Na DSouza hailed from Sagara in the Shivamogga district.

His son, Naveen Na DSouza, shared on social media, "Our revered father, renowned writer, Dr Na DSouza passed away today at 7.50 pm on 05.01.2025 at Father Muller Hospital, Mangaluru due to illness." The family announced that his body would be available for public viewing at their home in Sagara the following afternoon.

Na DSouza's Literary Contributions

Na DSouza was a prolific writer with over 40 novels, numerous short stories, plays, and children's literature to his name. Some of his notable works include "Kadina Benki," "Dweepa," and "Mulugadeya Oorige Bandavaru." His children's novel "Mulugadeya Oorige Bandavaru" earned him the Central Sahitya Academy's Bala Sahitya Puraskar.

"Dweepa," one of his acclaimed novels, was adapted into a film by director Girish Kasaravalli. Na DSouza's literary contributions were widely recognised, and he presided over the 80th Kannada Sahitya Sammelana held in Madikeri in 2014.

A Legacy of Environmental Advocacy

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his sorrow over Na DSouza's passing on X, highlighting his dual role as a writer and environmental advocate. "Na DSouza was involved in the fight for environmental protection along with his literary works. He was a writer with public concern," Siddaramaiah stated.

Na DSouza leaves behind his wife Philomena and three children. His legacy as a writer and advocate continues to inspire many within and beyond the literary community.