Dr. M. Chidanandamurthy, a prominent researcher who brought true meaning to the word ‘research’, is from Karnataka. He hails from the village of Mavina Tomu in Haveri district. Having completed his education in Ranibennur and Dharwad, he is currently serving as a guest lecturer at the Kerimattihalli Center of Karnataka University.
Under the guidance of Dr. D.G. Hajavagol, Dr. Srinivasa Doddamani conducted research on the topic “Singiraja Purana Vijaya: A Cultural Study” and obtained his Ph.D. He is currently serving as a guest lecturer at the Kerimattihalli Center of Karnataka University.
Their research on the “Singiraja Purana” sheds light on the cultural and political realities of that era, drawing on poetry, inscriptions, and the teachings of saints. Their work explores the socio-political dynamics of the time, alongside religious practices, elucidating the significance of Basavanna and Bijjala’s relationship.
Dr. Doddamani’s work extends to various fields, including history, literature, linguistics, and folk traditions. Their research on the “Singiraja Purana” provides insight into the socio-cultural aspects of the Kannada-speaking regions.
Dr. M. Chidanandamurthy, a pioneering researcher, has made significant contributions to Kannada literature through his extensive studies and research activities. His profound analyses of Vachana literature, Lingayatism, and Indian culture have positioned him at the forefront of Kannada literary scholarship.
Recognized for his outstanding contributions, Dr. M. Chidanandamurthy has been honored with numerous awards from organizations such as the Akhila Bharat Sharana Sahitya Parishat and the Ramanashree Foundation. His tireless efforts and dedication to Kannada literature have earned him accolades at the state, national, and international levels.
Professor S. G. Siddharamaiah, born on November 19, 1946, in Singapura, Tumakuru district, is a prominent figure in Kannada literature, particularly known for his contributions to Kannada poetry through his exploration of rural culture and experiences. He is revered as a distinguished critic and thinker. The essence of Prof. Siddharamaiah’s overall thought and expression lies in the profound study and interpretation of vachana literature, which forms the basis of his literary endeavors.
Having completed his primary education in Singapura and secondary education in Siraampura, Prof. Siddharamaiah pursued his undergraduate studies at the government college in Tumakuru and obtained his B.A. and M.A. degrees from Central College, Bengaluru. He went on to serve as a Kannada professor in various government colleges in Tumakuru, Sindhanuru, Madhugiri, and Koratagere. Additionally, he served as the Vice-Principal in Chikkanayakanahalli, Madhugiri, and Tumakuru government colleges. He dedicated five years as a professor at the Tumakuru Postgraduate Center. He has also served in national service schemes. Currently, he holds the position of Chairman of the Kannada Development Authority.
Prof. S. G. Siddharamaiah’s creative literary expression predominantly finds its form in poetry. His compositions such as “Golfo Ubba,” “Kaaduva Beli Hoo,” “Avaledeya Jangama,” “Sollu Phalavaagi,” “Maru Jeevani,” “Karebalaaga,” “Beedi Allama,” “Kaaya Maayada Haadu,” “Uruva Batti Taila,” “Aarivu Naachittu,” “Kaala Kannina Hangu,” “Hokkulu Ritu Gaana,” and “Haadugabba” highlight the essence of his poetic prowess. These collections, named after the essence of the vachanas, indicate his profound understanding and interpretation of vachana literature, accompanied by contemporary reflections.
His article series “Amrutavaakku” in Prajavani newspaper, which analyzes the vachanas, particularly focuses on Lingayat philosophy, presenting unique insights into the philosophical foundations of social justice.
Prof. Siddharamaiah has received numerous awards for his literary contributions, including the Karnataka Sahitya Academy Award thrice, the G. S. S. Kavya Puraskara, the Maasti Kavya Prashasti, the Rajyotsava Prashasti, and the Amma Prashasti.
The Akhila Bharata Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Pratishthana honored Prof. S. G. Siddharamaiah with the “Ramanashree Sharana Award” in 2017, recognizing his significant contributions to the study and critique of vachana literature.
Sri Lal Muhammad Bandeenavaz Khalif Al-Talaa, a personality who simultaneously brings to mind Allama and Allah, is a prominent figure in the literary landscape of Karnataka. Though not native to the Kannada region, his name stands out among active individuals who have enlivened the cultural arena with their prolific works. His creative prowess extends beyond the realm of literature, encompassing historical works, mythologies, dramas, philosophical hymns, and various other subjects. He has authored over a hundred literary works, each reflecting his vibrant creativity.
Born in November 1938 in Bannihatti, Vijayapura district, Sri L.B.K. Advani had only completed his seventh grade education but engaged in the activities of numerous associations and organizations from childhood. Starting his journey in the realm of theater at a young age, he later immersed himself in the creation and direction of dramas, becoming a wandering minstrel nurturing the theater culture. Through this, he became a repository of the thoughts of many wise men, disseminating them far and wide. He engaged in social dramas, both acting and directing.
His literary repertoire includes 20 dramas, 2 volumes of vachanas (devotional poetry), 4 folk literary works, a travelogue about his journey to Kashi, 16 biographical works, 3 philosophical hymn collections, 4 anthologies of names, 2 mythological works, and 9 devotional hymn collections. Additionally, there are 18 unpublished dramas and 6 unpublished mythological works in his creative treasury, showcasing his remarkable achievements.
One of the most significant contributions of Sri L.B.K. Advani lies in his modern vachanas (devotional poetry), where he seamlessly blends experience with contemporary realities, resulting in the formation of 1127 modern vachanas compiled as “Vachana Vahini”. Written under the pseudonym “Tapovan Mathadheesh,” his vachanas echo the sentiments of the 12th-century Sharana poets, while also addressing various contemporary issues such as devotion, ideals, harmony, social ethics, and national equality.
Recognitions such as the Karnataka State Award, C.G.K. Prize, Drama Academy Award, and Dr. Gubbi Veeranna Award, along with many others, adorn his illustrious career. Moreover, his modern vachana compositions earned him the prestigious “Ramanashree Sharana Award” from the Akhila Bharata Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Foundation in 2017, adding to his honors and bringing joy to his heart.
One of the founders of the Karnataka Sangeeta Sabha, Prof. Dr. Mrutyunjaya Shettar, is an outstanding, talented, and melodious singer. Born on April 21, 1964, in Dharwad, he passed the B. Music and M. Music examinations from Karnataka University with first-class honors along with gold and silver medals. He obtained his Ph.D. on the subject of “Tumari Gayanada Saundarya Samikshe” from Karnataka University.
Under the tutelage of Pandit Mallikarjun Mansur, Pandit Basavaraj Rajguru, Pandit Sangameshwar Gurav, and Pandit Prabhudev Saradar, Prof. Mrutyunjaya Shettar has received traditional music education. For the past 45 years, he has been promoting various genres of music such as Hindustani classical vocal, semi-classical vocal, bhajans, bhavageete, thumri, dasara padas, philosophical songs, natya sangeeta, and especially the compositions of Basavanna and Sharana poets in India and abroad, including Jaipur, Gwalior, and Kirana Gharanas.
Prof. Shettar has directed five documentaries on music for the Music and Drama Academy of New Delhi, performed in the musical play “Tansen,” directed the music for the play “Anji,” and through programs like “Swarasanchaari,” “Vachana Vihari,” and “Daasa Daari,” he has presented various forms of music to the public. He is a member of numerous music organizations at the state, national, and international levels and has been honored with titles such as “Abhinava Mallikarjun Mansur,” “Gaana Gandharva,” “Gaanaratna,” and “Sangeeta Ratna.”
Prof. Mrutyunjaya Shettar has been felicitated with various awards and honors nationally and internationally for his unparalleled contributions to the field of music. As a teacher, he has nurtured numerous students in the art of music. He has been delivering lectures at the Pandit Puttaraj Gawai Music Mahavidyalaya established by the Gadag Institute of Music, offering his services as a music educator. Through his dedication to learning, teaching, and daily practice, Prof. Shettar is perpetuating the tradition of music.
His unique contribution lies in presenting Vachanas through music, thus propagating the philosophical principles of the Sharana tradition. Recognizing his achievements, organizations such as the Akhila Bharata Sharana Sahitya Parishat and the Ramanashree Pratishthana felicitated him with the “Ramanashree Sharana Award” in 2017 with immense joy and respect.
The Veerashaiva Society of North America (VSNA), headquartered in California, is a public service organization founded by Kannadigas living in North America with the aim of promoting unity, fraternity, service, and the principles of Basavanna’s philosophy. Under the leadership of Srimati Lakshmi Hiremath, the president, the organization has established twenty-one branches in North America and Canada, focusing on disseminating the philosophy of Sharana and the universal principles of Basavanna’s doctrines.
Founded on November 18, 2011, the VSNA began its activities on November 3, 2012, with the goal of educating the youth and women’s groups, who are distanced from Karnataka’s culture, about the Kannada language and literature. It aims to impart the teachings of Sharana philosophy, promote egalitarian living, and provide assistance to those in need, while also conducting various activities such as discussions on vachanas, vachana recitations, linga worship, and spiritual retreats.
Furthermore, the VSNA organizes annual conventions to plan and execute its activities across all branches. Recognizing its significant contributions, the All India Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Foundation awarded the VSNA with the “Ramanashree Sharana Award” in 2017.
Honoring individuals who inspire and motivate others through their actions and achievements.
For the past thirty years, Professor Chandrashekar Vastrada has served as a Kannada lecturer, assistant director in the Kannada and Culture Department, and as a principal. If born in Sindagi, then he earned his M.A. in Kannada.
Engaging in various fields such as literature, agriculture, organization, and film, they also manage a publication house. Their independent works include ‘Humanitarian Basavanna’, ‘Tilak Madar Chennayya’, ‘Panchakshari Gavayigalu’, ‘Sindagi Shantaveer Patil’, ‘Kannada Jagadguru’, ‘Morning (Chintana)’, ‘Nuliya Chandayya (Essay)’, ‘Shivanagamayya (Play)’, H.N. Hugar, M.S. Saradar, Haridava memory (Lalita Essay), etc. They have successfully edited 25 literary works published on the occasion of the Rajatotsava celebration of Dr. Doddar Linga Mahaswami.
As members of the Karnataka Sahitya Academy, they are the founder members and executive directors of the D.R. Bendre National Memorial Trust. They have served as directors of the Academy of Fine Arts, Gadag. As the district president of the Karnataka Gamaka Art Association, they have managed the editing of the Grama Charitre Kosh of the Gadag Folk University. Currently, they serve as members of the Dr. Bettageri Krishnasharma National Memorial Trust and as directors of the Dr. M.M. Kalburgi Study Institute at the Jagadguru Tontadarya Math. They have also participated in state and national-level literary conferences.
Professor Chandrashekar Vastrada has been recognized for his research and study in the field of Vachana literature by the All India Sharana Sahitya Parishat and the Ramanashree Pratishtana, who honored him with the ‘Ramanashree Sharana Inspiration Award’ in 2017.
Mrs. J. V. Renuka, a Kannada writer, translator, poet, playwright, and orator, has published a total of 16 works to date, spanning various genres such as vachanas, essays, poetry, dramas, short stories, and prose translations. Engaging actively in fields like poetry recitation, public speaking, interpretation, debate, dialogue, social service, and music education, she has made a significant mark in cultural spheres.
Though she completed her education up to the eighth grade in school, she later pursued her S.S.L.C. and Hindi degrees, eventually earning a B.A. degree after marrying and having three children. Participating in numerous literary and poetic discussions and seminars both nationally and internationally, she has gained widespread recognition. Her tireless efforts in organizing various innovative programs through organizations like “Neelaganga Mahila Balaga,” “Suruchi Kalavida,” and “Sharana Sangama” have been instrumental in disseminating philosophical ideas to households.
Mrs. J. V. Renuka’s literary creations primarily consist of contemporary vachanas. To date, she has composed 2100 modern vachanas, a remarkable achievement in itself. Her vachanas, expressed in a simple and natural style, possess qualities akin to prose, making them easily accessible and appealing to readers. Covering a diverse range of subjects and themes, her vachanas contribute significantly to the modern vachana tradition. Recognizing her extensive contributions, the Akhila Bharata Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Ramana Shree Pratishtana honored her with the “Ramana Shree Sharana Uttejana Award” in 2017.
Mrs. J. V. Renuka’s vast collection of vachanas, along with her achievements, highlight her profound impact on contemporary Kannada literature and culture.
Vidushi Mrs. Sneha Hampiholi, known as the “unwavering mellifluous singer,” has made significant achievements in the realms of Hindustani classical music and devotional singing based on Vachanas and Dasara Keertanas.
Born in 1969 in Kalaburagi, she began her musical journey under the guidance of Vidushi Mrs. Saroja Anagarkar. Her passion for music, nurtured during her formative years, led her to excel academically and specialize in music, achieving distinctions in the “Vidwat” and “Visharad” examinations.
Married to the renowned tabla exponent Pt. Shri Sateesh Hampiholi, Mrs. Sneha has been instrumental in establishing the Sri Sadguru Music Academy in Bengaluru. This institution, initiated in 1992, has already provided music education to thousands of enthusiasts, blending traditional and contemporary approaches.
Mrs. Sneha Hampiholi’s expertise extends to various genres, particularly in devotional music and bhajans, where she seamlessly integrates classical music elements. She is renowned for her rendition of Vachanas, infusing them with appropriate ragas and rhythms, a highlight of her musical endeavors.
Acknowledging her significant contributions, she has been honored with numerous accolades including the “Pandit Puttaraj Krupa Bhushana,” “Yadgiri Sri Siddhalingeshwara Award,” “Swarakala Shri,” “Aryabhata Award,” “Swar Madhuri,” and “Swaradampati,” among others. Her relentless pursuit of excellence in Vachana singing has earned her the “Ramana Shri Sharana Uthtejana Award” from the Akhila Bharat Sharana Sahitya Parishat and the Ramanashree Foundation in 2017.
Mr. S. Raghunath, whose address is unknown, achieved victory over death, not falling prey to death’s grip when he fell off a train roof intending to end his life. Born in 1954, Raghunath had only studied up to SSLC. However, his education in the school of life was immense. Having served as a primary school teacher for a long time, he dedicated his life to providing education to thousands of orphaned, destitute, elderly, and differently-abled individuals, going beyond conventional norms.
When a pregnant beggar woman was found lying under a neem tree, Mr. Raghunath stepped forward to assist her under the agreement to provide education for her future child. This marked the beginning of his altruistic service, which commenced in 1982 in Gaonipalli. This journey continued to reach out to the marginalized, homeless, and parentless children, providing them with education. The institution, initially named “Beedi Badiya Makkalu” (Children of the Street Corner), later became known as “Namma Makkalu” (Our Children). It has now grown into a significant establishment.
Utilizing a portion of his salary, along with accolades received from his writings and contributions from the radio, Mr. S. Raghunath has so far provided education to 120 destitute children, who have now become the backbone of society. He has also rehabilitated over 1200 wild animals and planted more than 20,000 trees. Through the preparation and distribution of medicinal plants, he has helped maintain the health of over 500 elderly and impoverished individuals.
Raghunath, a renowned poet in Kannada, has published eight collections of poetry, three collections of short stories, three critical essays, and three children’s literature works. He has also translated four works from Kannada to Telugu and thirteen from Telugu to Kannada, besides contributing significantly to folk literature, editing, and scriptwriting. His profound knowledge of Vachana literature led to the publication of “Vachana Mu.”
His selfless service in alleviating the suffering of the distressed and his dedication to translating Vachana literature into Telugu have earned Mr. S. Raghunath, the founder of “Namma Makkalu,” the utmost respect and admiration from the Akhila Bharata Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Pratishthan, who awarded him the “Ramanashree Sharana Utsahana Award” in 2017.
“A great dissertation on the topic ‘Vachana Literature: Post-Vachana Explorations’ was presented by Dr. Kumaraswamy R.T., who obtained his Ph.D. degree from Hampi Kannada University in 2016. Originally from Hosalalli in the Hiriyur taluk of Chitradurga district, Dr. Kumaraswamy R.T. was born on May 17, 1980. His grandfather, Lingayat Gangajjan, experienced imprisonment alongside Mahatma Gandhi during the freedom struggle. His grandfather’s wife, Shatayushi Ningajji, continues to actively participate in the freedom movement. Dr. Kumaraswamy R.T. is their grandson. His father is R.V. Tipperan and his mother is L.G. Ratnamma.
At the age of twelve, Dr. Kumaraswamy R.T. received initiation into the Lingayat sect by Sri Murugha Sharana of Chitradurga. He completed his education from primary to postgraduate at High School, Chitradurga. Having obtained a three-year degree from Basavatattva Mahavidyalaya, he served as the Principal of Basava Kendra, Bangalore, Tippashetti Math, and Gandhi Nagar under the guidance of Sri Murugha Sharana. Later, Dr. Kumaraswamy R.T. assumed leadership roles at Murugha Math in Kolhapur, Shakhama Math in Chitradurga, and Veman Peetha in Harihar. Engaging in numerous social and educational programs, he dedicated himself to serving society.
After his tenure as Principal, he adopted the name Sri Basavakumar Sharana. Sri Basavakumar Sharana actively engaged in activities such as Sharana Sangama, fostering positive thinking, observing international days, and leading people’s movements in Kolegara. He organized numerous events such as Sharana cultural festivals, demonstrating his commitment to social service.
Dr. Basavakumar Sharana’s monumental dissertation meticulously examines three distinct dimensions—creative exploration, compilation, and folk exploration. Professor Venkatesh Indavadi of Hampi Kannada University conferred the Ph.D. degree upon Dr. Basavakumar Sharana.
In collaboration with the Ramanashree Foundation in Bangalore, the Akhila Bharat Sharana Sahitya Parishat initiated the “Ramanashree Sharana Vachana Research Award” this year. This award honors two researchers who have completed their Ph.D. studies in Vachana literature research. Dr. Basavakumar Sharana, who earned his Ph.D. in 2016 on the topic of ‘Vachana literature: Post-Vachana Research,’ was awarded the “Ramanashree Sharana Vachana Research Award” in 2017 by both institutions.
Dr. Basavakumar Sharana’s monumental dissertation explores the topic of ‘Vachana literature: Post-Vachana Research,’ shedding light on the post-Vachana literature explorations.”
“Occupational Devotees of Vachana Literature: Expression and Philosophy of Vachanas” is the subject of the research essay conducted by Dr. Dande Nandishwar, who obtained his Ph.D. degree from Hampi Kannada University in 2016. Born on July 1, 1984, in Hosapete Taluk’s Kondanayakanahalli, Sri Dande Nandishwar comes from an agricultural family. His parents, Dodda Basappa and Eeramma, are illiterate, and he is the first graduate in his entire family. His parents are revered as role models in the village. Singing Vachanas through devotional songs and visiting Sharana sites while performing Vachana bhajans were activities initiated by his father, Dodda Basappa. With such upbringing, Sri Dande naturally inclined towards understanding and embodying the essence and philosophy of Vachanas.
Publishing several articles on the current status of Vachana authors and Vachanas, Sri Dande Nandishwar, originally from Hosapete, is a scholarly storyteller. He has published numerous works through the publication house “Vijaya Kalyana.”
Under the guidance of Dr. N. Amarendra, a professor at Hampi Kannada University and a renowned storyteller, Dr. Dande Nandishwar conducted research on the topic “Occupational Devotees of Vachana Literature: Expression and Philosophy of Vachanas,” for which he was awarded a Ph.D. by Kannada University in 2016.
In the past, manual laborers and their work were not respected in the society of devotion or pre-Vachana era. However, it was these laborers who formed the foundation of society, carrying it forward through their efforts. Many of them, more skilled in physical labor than literary knowledge, turned their work into a source of spiritual wealth. During the revolutionary period of Basavanna, these laborers found a new platform. Their efforts in the movement not only changed the economic face of society but also reshaped it in a unique way. Vachanas born out of their toil and sweat have transformed the economic aspect of society into a new form. Those who were instrumental in building a new tradition of labor and dharma through such vachanas are honored by the Akhila Bharata Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Foundation in Bangalore, which have initiated the “Ramanashree Sharana Vachana Research Award” this year. The award is given to two researchers who have completed their Ph.D. and are engaged in research related to the field of Vachana literature.
Therefore, the research topic “Occupational Devotees of Vachana Literature: Expression and Philosophy of Vachanas,” for which Dr. Dande Nandishwar received his Ph.D. in 2016, is being honored with the “Ramanashree Sharana Vachana Research Award” for the year 2017 by both organizations.
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