Mysore/Mysuru: “The response of a writer to various atrocities committed in society and  the environment around  is more important than reading,” opined writer Dr. D.K. Rajendra.

He was speaking after inaugurating Dasara Yuva Kavigoshti (Dasara Youth Poets Meet) organised by District Kannada Sahitya Parishat (KSP) and Spandana Samskrutika Parishat at Kannada Sahitya Parishat Bhavan, Vijayanagar in the city, on Oct.16.

As writer Prof. K.S. Bhagawan, who was earlier slated to inaugurate the event was not considered, following his controversial remarks about Vokkaliga community quoting Kuvempu during Mahisha Utsava celebrations in the city on Oct. 13, Dr. Rajendra had to inaugurate the event.

“It is good that for the first time Youth Poets Meet is being organised as part of Dasara festivities. Earlier, the poets meet was held at Jaganmohan Palace where the giants of literary world were participating, but managing it was always difficult with the writers vying with each other to be a part of it. For those deprived of the opportunity, this stage provides a better opportunity. During princely era, it was a matter of pride for Maharajas to encourage poets in their court.”

Literature is also an important aspect of Dasara festivities like other cultural, religious and sporting events. The poets meet has gained significance in Dasara festivities because the erstwhile rulers were the patrons of art and literature. Since the era of Pampa, society and literature share a bond. If life is colourful, so also the literature, said Dr. Rajendra.

“Writers should not remain silent to atrocities in the society or on nature. They should respond appropriately to the situation which would lead to the emergence of a new literature. Academics is not important to writers. Many folklorists have created wonderful literature without any educational background. Literature should unite people and a poet must have an open mind,” Dr. Rajendra advised young poets.

District KSP President Maddikere Gopal, Dr. Shahaseena Begum, former President of District Government Employees Association H.K. Ramu, Vice-President of Taluk Primary School Teachers Association H. A. Sumathi, President of Spandana Samskrutika Parishat T. Satish Javaregowda and others were present.