Bengaluru: Kannada Sahitya Parishat (KSP) and Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) had organised a function at Town Hall here yesterday to present Nrupatunga Award to noted Novelist Dr. S.L. Bhyrappa.

The award carries a cash prize of Rs. 7 lakh.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Bhyrappa opined that literature like music should be clear and pure. However, he regretted that young writers were being misled with leftist-rightist concepts with the effect that writers are being identified as leftists or rightists.

Referring to Universities, Dr. Bhyrappa said that pure literature was not being taught to students who instead of being groomed with rich grammar are turned to casteism.

He expressed apprehension that such an attitude would lead even a good budding writer to go astray. He pointed out that such a bad atmosphere had entered every sector in society.

Continuing, Dr. Bhyrappa contended that writers usually have good experiences in life and if groomed properly, they can evolve into good critics.

KSP President Dr. Manu Baligar opined that young writers should emulate Dr. Bhyrappa whose every novel is unique and complete. He pointed out that the most sought-after books are those authored by Dr. Bhyrappa.

Delivering the felicitation address, litterateur Dr. Pradhan Gurudath observed that many writers today weave a fictitious story with no substance in contrast to Dr. Bhyrappa whose every book is a masterpiece relevant to society.

BMTC Chairman M. Nagaraj Yadav, Vice-Chairman B. Govindaraj, Director Dr. A.N. Prakash Gowda and others were present.