Daijiworld Media Network- Mangaluru (VP)

Mangaluru, Apr 15: Gidigere Ramakka Mogera, a revered figure known for her mastery of Paddana, breathed her last at her residence in Gidigere, Kateel, on Monday, April 15.

Despite her lack of formal education, Ramakka memorized numerous divine rituals and Shramika culture Sandhi-paddans, including O Bele, Nallori Mama, Manjotti Gona, Govinda Badane, Kanada, Maland Mara, Kumara, Siri, Bantaru, and Abbaga-Daraga. Her rendition of 'Siri Paddana' has been immortalized in the publication 'Ramakka Muggerti Kattida Siripaddana' by Hampi Kannada University, edited by A V Navada.

Born in Vamanjoor, Mangaluru taluk, Ramakka was the daughter of Kookra Muggera and Duggamma. At the age of 17, she married Kapira Mugera of Gidigere near Katil. Together, for over half a century, they dedicated themselves to the creation and recitation of Paddana in plantations. Ramakka inherited the rich tradition of Tulu poetry, Paddana, and Sandhi from her grandmother.

In recognition of her contributions, Ramakka received numerous accolades, including the Veera Rani Abbakka Award in 2000, DK Zilla Kannada Sahitya Parishad Award, 'Paddana Kogile' title from Kateelu Devala, the district-level Republic Day Award in 2001, and the Karnataka Government Rajyotsava Award in 2015. She also served as a member of the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy for the year 2004-05, and received countless other honours. Ramakka is survived by six sons and a daughter.