‘Niranjana’s writings are relevant today too’

Dharwad: Noted writer C Veeranna said Niranjana was one of Kannada's versatile writer, and his writings reflected progressive thoughts aimed at social welfare.
Speaking at a programme ‘Niranjana's Life and Literature: A Reflection' organised as part of writer Niranjana's birth centenary by the Karnataka Sahitya Academy in collaboration with the Niranjana Vichara Vedike at Suvarna Cultural Complex here on Sunday, he said Niranjana's works embodied social progressivism.
"Even today, Niranjana remains relevant," Veeranna said and called upon young writers to foster progressive thoughts among people through their works.
He stated that creativity speaks the truth, and Niranjana stood in that lineage. Contemporary writers must carry forward his ideals and principles, he said.
Senior critic Rajendra Chenni said Niranjana was a driving force in Kannada literature. Despite facing many challenges in life, he made invaluable contributions to literature, he said.
Chenni urged that progressive Kannada literature should be recognised at the national level. He pointed out that the 1930s and 1940s saw significant movements such as farmers' struggles and the Phule-Ambedkar movements, which were pivotal in shaping progressive discourse.
"Niranjana was a highly experimental writer. His stories displayed a deep sense of experimentation, and during the 1950s, his progressive literature played a crucial role in portraying social injustices. His works are a reflection of the inequalities and struggles faced by marginalised communities," Chenni said.
Presiding over the inaugural session, Karnataka Sahitya Academy chairman LN Mukundaraj stated that understanding contemporary times is crucial for grasping the true essence of the Constitution.
The Sahitya Academy is committed to educating the younger generation about the lives and philosophies of great literary figures. He said several women writers are actively creating literature on various social topics, emphasising the social responsibility of literature.
Arjuna Golasangi, convener HG Desai, K Ramareddy, writer Malati Pattanashetti, journalist R Poornima, Ramzan Darga and others were present.