Mysore/Mysuru: Kannada Book Authority (KBA) Chairman Manasa has expressed plans to enhance readership and attract book enthusiasts during the 2024 Dasara celebrations. 

Speaking at the release of veteran writer Dr. C.P. Krishnakumar’s (CPK) work ‘Pustaka Samskruti: Bhuvanada Bhagya’ during a programme commemorating ‘World Book Day’ at the District Kannada Sahitya Bhavan in Vijayanagar recently, he underscored the importance of promoting a reading culture.

Manasa highlighted the intention to encourage people to buy books out of genuine interest, rather than solely relying on publicity efforts. While acknowledging publishers’ suggestions for extensive promotion of the book exhibition to be organised by KBA during Dasara, he emphasised the significance of cultivating a habit of reading among everyone.

He highlighted the transition from ancient encryptions during Emperor Ashoka’s era to modern e-books and audio-books. He stressed the importance of promoting reading habits among the population, mentioning that the satisfaction derived from reading printed books surpasses that of audio-books.

Expanding on the significance of books, Manasa remarked that they are not merely collections of pages but repositories of life-shaping written material. He advocated for establishment of ‘mini libraries’ in houses to developing reading habits for kids. 

 Reflecting on the literary legacy of Kuvempu, Manasa suggested that the renowned poet laureate might have received the Nobel Prize in Literature if his works like ‘Malegalalli Madumagalu’ and ‘Kanooru Subbamma Heggadathi’ had been translated into other languages.

 Dr. CPK emphasised the importance of revitalising book culture in the face of its decline. He humorously recalled his childhood habit of stealing books and quipped that he now awaits someone to ‘steal’ the books in his own house, highlighting the enduring allure of literature.

KBA Chairman Manasa, a native of Mysuru, was feted. District Kannada Sahitya Parishat President Maddikere Gopal, theatre personality Rajashekar Kadamba, former University of Mysore Librarian Dr. C.P. Ramasesh, journalist Amshi Prasannakumar, former Karnataka Women’s Commission Chairperson Manjula Manasa, Publishers D.N. Lokappa and U.S. Mahesh and others were present.