Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Mar 2: The Kannada department of Mumbai University, in collaboration with Gulbarga University's (Kalaburagi) Kannada Studies Institute and Dr Vishwanath Karnad Foundation, hosted a day-long national seminar to celebrate Prof H T Pote’s 60th birthday at the J P Naik Auditorium, Vidyanagari, Kalina, Santacruz (E), on Saturday.
Presiding over the event, former vice-chancellor of Karnataka Sanskrit University, Bengaluru, and Hampi Kannada University, Mallepuram G Venkatesh, lauded the efforts of Prof G N Upadhya, who has single-handedly nurtured the Kannada department at Mumbai University for the past 15 years. He praised Upadhya's contributions to students' academic and cultural development and his role in promoting Kannada culture on a national scale.
Mallepuram Venkatesh emphasized the importance of unity and collective effort in achieving success. He noted, "If a person wants to rise, they must gather all the necessary resources and move together with everyone. Education elevates us to great heights, enriching our lives and bringing honour to our field and country. Mumbai's Kannadigas, who live modestly and without arrogance, have become highly responsive and culturally aware.”
The event was inaugurated by retired Supreme Court Justice B N Srikrishna, who lit the lamp and delivered a special lecture on the uniqueness of the Indian Constitution.
Senior journalist Srinivas Jokatte and Dr Shyamala Prakash released Dr G N Upadhya’s book 'Kannada Nadu-Nudige Mumbai Koduge'. Additionally, Mallepuram G Venkatesh unveiled Dr Shyamala Prakash's poetry collection 'Maatinolgana Dhaatu'. Senior journalist Prakash Hegde Kunthini (along with Jyothi Prakash Kunthini) and Vidya Ramakrishna were honoured with achiever awards and gold medals.
Speaking on the theme of pluralism in literature, Dr G N Upadhya stressed the importance of academic programs that build universal relationships beyond boundaries. He expressed pride in the growing number of young writers in the department, which strengthens Kannada literary activities.
Srinivas Jokatte shared his joy and gratitude for being part of the event, calling it a proud moment in his life. He commended Dr Upadhya’s efforts to unite Kannadigas in Mumbai through cultural, social, and community services.
In a comparative literature session, Dr Sunil Ramtek from SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai, spoke on Marathi Dalit literature. Prof Vikram Visaji from Karnataka Central University, Kalaburagi, discussed Kannada literature, while Prof Dattatreya Murumkar from Mumbai University’s Hindi department elaborated on the origins, development, and dimensions of Dalit literature.
The event featured poetry recitations by Dr Shyamala Garud, Marathi department professor at Mumbai University, and Dr Mariyappa Natekar, a poet and writer from Yadgir.
Assistant professor Dr Poornima S Shetty welcomed the gathering, research student Kala Bhagwat compered the event, and proposed the vote of thanks.