Mysore/Mysuru: Chairman of the Kannada Book Authority (KBA), Manasa, emphasised the enrichment of life by embracing arts, literature  and culture.

His remarks came during the inauguration of the ‘Sahitya Sambhrama’ Literary Fest, jointly organised by the District Kannada Sahitya Parishat and Kathabindu Prakashana, Mangaluru, at Kannada Sahitya Bhavan in Vijayanagar First Stage recently.

Expressing concern over the erosion of humanity amidst the stress of modern life, Manasa lamented that people, after losing their humanity, are increasingly exhibiting behaviour akin to animals. Highlighting the significance of prioritising humanity above all else, he underscored the need for everyone to embrace arts, literature, and culture in their lives. He added that events like Sahitya Sambhrama play a vital role in promoting these values within society.

During the occasion, a total of eight books were released, including works such as Dr. T. Tyagaraju Mysuru’s ‘Manada Maatu’, Pushpa Nagathihalli’s ‘Anugatha’ and ‘Dhareanchina Mara’, Shobhita Mysuru’s ‘Sanjeya Surya’, Latha K.D. Hegde’s ‘Kannada Tarulathe’ & ‘Gubbiya Goodu,’ and H.M. Satish Bengaluru’s ‘Nudihaara’ and ‘Jinuguva Sonemale.’

Additionally, twenty achievers from various fields were honoured with the prestigious Kannada Kanteerava National Award and Kannadathi Lakshmammanni Award.

Mysuru District Kannada Sahitya Parishat President Maddikere Gopal, as well as writers P.V. Pradeep Kumar, Dr. Kollappe Govinda Bhat, Prabha Shastri, Joshyula Mysuru and others were present.