Dr. G. R. Channabasappa, one of the eminent thinkers of Karnataka, leads a life of simple beauty and profound wisdom. His words reflect purity in thought, sharpness in observation, and mindfulness in action.
The revered Sri Siddheshwara Swamiji aptly captured the essence of Dr. G. R. Channabasappa’s personality by describing him as a personification of noble qualities in thoughts and words, profoundness in observation, and attentiveness in conduct. Born on May 18, 1930, in Gondekerehalli, Tarikere Taluk, Chikkamagaluru District, G. R. Channabasappa’s education was hindered by poverty, restricting him to primary school. During his student days, he actively participated in the freedom struggle. Following independence in 1948, he joined as a school teacher, serving for 15 years, then as a social education extension officer for 2 years, followed by 8 years as a sub-editor and public relations officer in the Information and Broadcasting Department. He then served for 15 years as an editor and deputy director in the Population Census Department of the World Bank, accumulating 40 years of distinguished government service.
During his tenure in government service and after retirement, Dr. G. R. Channabasappa served through various prominent institutions related to language, literature, and culture. He chaired and served as a member in numerous government committees, offering invaluable advice. He served as President and member of organizations such as the Kannada Development Authority, Kannada Book Authority, Kannada University Administrative Committee, and selection committees for awards like Pampa Prize and Basava Award. His efforts brought about many new initiatives in these institutions, contributing significantly to the literary landscape.
Among his many accolades are the first honorary doctorate from the Karnataka Janapada Vishwavidyalaya, the Basava National Award from the Karnataka government, the Silver Elephant award from the South Indian and Guides Association, and numerous other prestigious awards totaling 36. Notably, he has donated substantial portions of his award money to various public institutions, including the establishment of the Sharana Sahitya Parishat.
Dr. G. R. Channabasappa authored over 60 books in various genres of literature, including folklore, autobiography, drama, and editing. His life, both personal and public, epitomizes purity and sincerity, making him a role model for the current generation.
Recognizing his lifetime achievements and contributions, the Akhil Bharatiya Sharana Sahitya Parishat and the Ramanshri Foundation awarded him the prestigious “Ramanashree Sharana Jeevanmada Sadhaka Sanmana” in 2018, celebrating his lifelong dedication to the fields of Sharana culture and beyond.
Dr. Amarendra Nugadoni, a prominent Kannada author who has crafted hundreds of exceptional short stories such as ‘Tamandha Kadu’, ‘Koradu Konaruvana Pari’, ‘Dhare Urudare’, ‘Nelada Mareya Nidhana’, ‘Odalugondaavaru’, ‘Jogula Nindaladde’, ‘Meeruva Ghana’, ‘Pakvakallade Parinama Kaanisadu’, ‘Odal Hangu’, and many others, has shaped his creative personality through his impactful contributions to Sharana literature and Vachana literature. Currently, Dr. Amarendra Nugadoni serves as a professor at Hampi Kannada University in Raichur district.
Dr. Amarendra has authored numerous scholarly articles on Vachana literature, including critical analyses of “Shunya Sampadane,” “Basavanna’s Vachanas,” and “Allama Prabhu’s Vachanas.” His significant work “Jedara Dasimayya” has been published by the Central Sahitya Akademi. Additionally, Dr. Amarendra has provided guidance to several students’ research studies on Sharana Chalavali.
Recognizing his pioneering research and contributions to Vachana literature and intellectual discourse, Dr. Amarendra Nugadoni was honored with the prestigious ‘Ramanashree Sharana Hiriya Shreni Prashasti’ in 2018 by the Akhila Bharata Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Pratishthana, which brought them immense joy and satisfaction.
Huuvu araḷuva teradi manavu arali’rali’rali,
Haṇṇu tumbida teradi nam’ma bāḷarali.
Hoḷe tumbi baṇḍamtē bāḷu tumbirali,
Suggi bel̥e baṇḍamtē anubhāva irali.
Aruṇōdayada teradi śivanōlume barali,
Ennātma dānanda endēndū irali-bayalamānasa dēvā..
Paramapoojya Shri Dr. Vijayakumar Mahanubhavagalu has authored thousands of such gentle and profound verses. Until now, they have published four collections of verses. Since his days of studying B.A., he began composing verses and has since penned over 600 verses, elucidating various personalities of Sharana. He expressed that the urge to see the divine power of spirituality, invisible yet tangible, led him to write these verses and later went on to write verses addressing societal concerns.
Paramapoojya Dr. Vijayakumar Mahanubhavagalu has composed over two thousand verses until now, and all of them have been published in various newspapers, periodicals, and other publications. With a vision to compile all these verses into one large anthology, they are contemplating to publish a comprehensive collection.
With the publication of “Bayala Manasa Deva,” Paramapoojya Dr. Vijayakumar Mahanubhavagalu has significantly contributed to the modern spiritual literature. Recognizing their immense contribution, the Akhila Bharata Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Pratishthan awarded them the prestigious “Ramanashree Sharana Senior Category Prize” in 2018.
Mr. Fakkeeresh Kanavi, who has made noteworthy contributions in the field of Hindustani music and Vachana singing, hails from Gadag district. Trained in classical music under the tutelage of both Pandit Puttaraj Gawai and Veereshwar Punyashrama, he honed his skills in singing Vachanas with profound meaning and emotion. Serving as an artist at the Akashvani Kalaburgi center for 29 years, he retired in 2015. Mr. Kanavi, whose music resonates with the essence of Vachanas, has not only enriched his entire family with music but has also been instrumental in spreading the flow of Vachana singing. He is one of the reasons behind the continuous propagation of Vachana singing tradition in the Kalyana Karnataka region. Recognizing his exceptional contribution, the Akhila Bharata Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Pratishthana awarded him with the “Ramanashree Sharana Hiriya Shreni Prashasti” in 2018, with great joy and honor.
The Sri Balaleela Mahanta Shivayogi Ishwara Granthamale, which began in 1943 under the guidance of Sri Mrutyunjaya Mahaswami of Murughamat in Dharwad, has published over 350 works to date, focusing on Basava Sharana literature, the philosophy of true devotees, and the literary works of ancient poets like Harihar and Bhima Kavi.
On the occasion of the centenary celebration of Basava Jayanthi, a significant compilation titled ‘Yugayugada Utsava’ was released, featuring 25 works by global thinkers. Additionally, commemorative volumes titled ‘Mahanta Belagu’ and ‘Prasadaprabha’, along with 112 original works published during the centenary celebration of the Prasad Nilaya of Murughamat, showcase the invaluable contributions of Sri Balaleela Mahanta Shivayogi Ishwara Granthamale.
For over 75 years, the Dharwad Murughamat’s Sri Balaleela Mahanta Shivayogi Ishwara Granthamale has been actively involved in the publication and dissemination of Sharana literature, recognizing and honoring the unparalleled service of Sri M.N.P. Mallikarjuna Mahaswami, the President of the institution, the Akhil Bharat Sharana Sahitya Parishat, and the Ramanashree Pratishthana, who are delighted to confer the “Ramanashree Sharana Hiriya Shrenee Prashasti” in 2018, acknowledging their exceptional dedication and service.
Honoring individuals who inspire and motivate others through their actions and achievements.
Born into a farming family in Khanapura, Ullagaddi, Hukkeri taluk, Belagavi district, Sri Prakash Girimallanavar is a promising young writer who has grown up in the cultural milieu of the Sharanas. He has been a dedicated assistant librarian at the ‘Angayat Research Center Library’ of the same institution and has served diligently.
His numerous works, including “Vachana Dharma: Vaicharika Vivechane,” “Vachana Sanskriti,” “Basavanna’s Desired Society,” and “Vachana Sahitya: Sanskrutika Mukhamukhi,” analyze Sharana literature intellectually. Prakash Girimallanavar has produced over 30 such works, delving into Sharana literature with keen insight. He has also edited several biographies of great souls, social workers, and literary figures, contributing significantly to the literary world.
Acknowledged and praised by institutions, esteemed mutts, and organizations, Dr. M. M. Kalaburgi and Dr. S. R. Gunjal have compiled and made available many articles and research materials related to Sharana literature, thanks to Prakash’s efforts. His tireless dedication to Sharana literature at a young age has earned him the prestigious “Ramanashree Sharana Uthejana Prashasti” from the Akhil Bharat Sharana Sahitya Parishat and the Ramanashree Foundation in 2018.
Hūvu sthāvaravāgiddalli parimava jangamavāyittayya!
Phalavu sthāvaravāgiddalli madhuratēyu jangamavāyittayya!
Taṉtu sthāvaravāgiddalli vidyut jangamavāyittayya!
Tande Basavēsha nimmiravu emmalli nelēyāgittāgi
Jagavē jangamavāgittu kāṇā bhaktādīna!
Mr. M.S. Basavesh, who primarily hails from Chikkamallanahalli, Jagalur taluk, Davanagere district, is currently working as the manager of the Savings Bank branch in Kashtagrahara, a rural area. He holds a postgraduate degree in science and is actively involved in managing the branch’s operations.
Mr. M.S. Basavesh, often referred to as a steward of literature, is essentially a poet at heart. He has chosen poetry as the medium for his literary expression and has published two poetry collections titled “Bikkutive Chukki” and “Anusandhana.” Over time, Mr. Basavesh has paid more attention to the composition of modern vachanas and has also compiled a collection of vachanas titled “Kicchilillada Bege.” He has imbued his vachanas with the philosophical and spiritual essence of the Sharana tradition and has also composed vachanas in the folk-tripadi style.
Recognizing his unique contribution to the creation of intellectually rich modern vachanas, Mr. M.S. Basavesh has been honored with the “Ramanashree Sharana Uttejana Prashasti” by the All India Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Foundation in 2018.
Born into a family deeply rooted in the realm of music, Hindustani vocalist Mrs. Shashikala Kulahalli inherited her musical inclinations from her father, the renowned Hindustani vocalist Pandit Sangameshwar, her mother Mrs. Leelavati, and her brothers, Mr. Nandikeshwar and Pandit Kaivalyakumar, who are also accomplished musicians. Growing up in such an environment, Mrs. Shashikala developed a passion for music from an early age. Having pursued higher education in the field of music, she has been actively involved in various musical programs and performances, showcasing her talent in Kannada, Hindi, and Marathi languages.
Mrs. Shashikala Kulahalli has excelled not only as a vocalist but also as a presenter of Vachana compositions. She has participated in numerous concerts and television programs, presenting the profound verses of Vachanas with melodious renditions. Her notable contribution includes the production of audio CDs like “Vachana Samriddhi,” highlighting her dedication to promoting Vachana literature through music.
Her performances in various prestigious events at state and national levels have earned her widespread acclaim. Recognizing her significant contribution, she has been honored with the “Ramanashree Sharana Uttejana Prashasti” by the Akhila Bharata Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Pratishthana in 2018.
The dawn of the 12th century Sharan movement and its consequential spiritual teachings, disseminated through visual media, commenced with the inauguration of the Basava TV channel in Bengaluru on January 26, 2018. This endeavor, driven by the enthusiasm and initiative of the devout follower of Sharanism, Mr. E. Krishnappa, embodies his vision. The Basava TV channel, initiated through the Basava Tatva Prachara Pratishthana organization, unveils the comprehensive philosophy of Sharan Dharma to its viewers.
Before the launch of “Basava TV,” Mr. E. Krishnappa garnered support from the Sharan community, organizations, entrepreneurs, and politicians. When cooperation was not forthcoming, they sold all their property and resources to realize their aspirations. As a result of their singular efforts, the fruition of the unique revolution of the Sharan community in Karnataka and the resounding influence of their Vachana literature are now constantly being broadcasted through “Basava TV.” Alongside, Mr. E. Krishnappa’s dream is to establish the “Basava Tatva Training College” and construct the “Basava Dharma Cultural Training Center.”
Recognizing Mr. E. Krishnappa’s dedication and courage in propagating the culture and spirituality of Sharan Dharma throughout the region via the “Basava TV” channel, the Akhila Bharat Sharan Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Foundation awarded him the prestigious “Ramanashree Sharan Uthtejana Prashasti” in 2018.
Dr. G.V. Jayarajasekhar is a rare practitioner, engaging actively in the fields of vachana literature, vachana sahitya, content creation, and contemplation of the Sharana tradition, thus expanding the vast ocean of Sharana culture through his continuous study, research, production, analysis, and writings. His relentless efforts in various mediums such as music, rhythm, broadcasting literature, and diverse forms of media exemplify his dedication to the propagation of the Sharana philosophy and culture.
A beacon of Sharana culture, Dr. G.V. Jayarajasekhar has been tirelessly working towards the dissemination and enrichment of the Sharana ethos in the society, setting an exemplary path in familial life while upholding the tenets of the Sharana dharma. Having obtained postgraduate and doctoral degrees after raising children, his prolific literary contributions, spanning a wide range of genres such as readings, commentaries, cassettes, CDs, radio, and television programs, reflect his multifaceted endeavors. His profound impact extends beyond literary realms, as he has made significant contributions to social service, leaving an indelible mark in various fields.
Recognizing his outstanding contributions to Sharana literature and other domains, numerous prestigious organizations from India and abroad have honored Dr. G.V. Jayarajasekhar with accolades, acknowledging his unparalleled dedication and invaluable contributions to Sharana culture. The Akhila Bharata Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Pratishthana have conferred upon him the esteemed “Ramanashree Sharana Gaurava Prashasti,” recognizing his exceptional service and dedication.
Dr. Veena Bannanje, standing beyond life, beyond the cessation of life, a healer who meets the sensations of life and explores its mysteries, is the daughter of the eminent scholars Sri Bannanje Govindacharya and Smt. Ahalya. Apart from being a medical practitioner, Dr. Veena has also excelled in various literary fields such as storytelling, essay writing, poetry, drama, and other forms of literature. Her other pursuits include acting, directing plays, public speaking, and social service.
For some time, Dr. Veena worked as a Kannada lecturer, principal, and program director for the Rathabedi Friends Organization. Later, she embarked on a Himalayan journey with the eminent literary and philosophical figure Satyakama, following which she served as the program director for the Satyakama Foundation in Kallahalli, Jamanakhandi Taluk, Bagalkot District. Her notable achievement there was the construction of a reservoir costing 80 lakhs for drinking water supply to the village of Kallahalli.
Dr. Veena Bannanje, a recipient of the Ph.D. in the subject of “Women’s Sensibility in Akkamahadevi’s Vachanas” and “The Tantric Path in Acharya Rajneesh and Satyakama’s Literature,” is an avid researcher in the field of spirituality, an intellectual with unique curiosity, and a distinctive literary personality. Her notable literary works include ‘Akkana Daitha’, ‘Akkana Hadi’, ‘Santeyolagondhu Mane’, ‘Antar Mukha, Lokaantha’, ‘Agama-Samaagama’, ‘Satyakamarondige Nanna Sahasada Dinagalu’, ‘Tande Magalu’, ‘Echchara Da Kanasu’, and others, along with her contributions to public service. Dr. Veena Bannanje’s exceptional contributions to literature and other fields have earned her the utmost respect and admiration from the Akhila Bharat Sharana Sahitya Parishat and the Ramanashree Foundation, who have honored her with the “Ramanashree Sharana Gaurava Prashasti.”
Dr. Mohan Bollar, who holds a Ph.D. degree from the University of Mumbai, under the guidance of Dr. K. Raghunath, has conducted a study titled “Basavanna and Narayana Guru: A Comparative Study” in Kasaragod district.
Although Basavanna from the 12th century and Narayana Guru from the 19th century belonged to different times and regions, there are significant similarities in their thoughts and actions. Despite the entrenched social disparities, superstitions, caste barriers, and women’s oppression prevailing in society for a long time, both these philosophers conducted a proactive struggle to break these rigid conditions, as analyzed by Dr. Mohan Bollar in his research. The progressive thinking of Basavanna and Narayana Guru, which emphasized social equality and the well-being of the masses, has been critically examined by Dr. Bollar.
Dr. Mohan Bollar’s study holds immense significance for its exemplary portrayal of the progressive ideologies of Basavanna and Narayana Guru, and their relevance to contemporary society, especially in the context of addressing age-old social disparities.
For his research titled “Basavanna and Narayana Guru: A Comparative Study,” Dr. Mohan Bollar has been awarded the prestigious “Ramanashree Sharan Sahitya Samshodhaka Prashasti” for the year 2018 by the Akhila Bharata Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Prathistana.
Dr. D. G. Hajavagol’s guidance on “Singiraj Purana Vijaya: A Cultural Study” has led Dr. Srinivas Doddamani to conduct research and earn a Ph.D. degree from Karnatak University. Dr. Doddamani, hailing from Mavinatombu village in Haveri district, completed his education in Ranibennur and Dharwad. Currently, he serves as a guest lecturer at the Karnatak University’s Keri Matthihalli Postgraduate Center.
His study delves into the epic “Singirajamaraana,” composed in the fifteenth century, which draws extensively from the poetry, inscriptions, and teachings of the saints of that era. Highlighting the socio-political aspects of that time, particularly the relationship between Basavanna and Bijjala, this work sheds light on contemporary societal and political realities. Despite some mythological elements, certain narratives in this epic are grounded in the poetic tradition of the time. Dr. Srinivas’s intellectual analysis also scrutinizes some of these narratives.
Recognizing Dr. Srinivas Doddamani’s efforts to contextualize the Puranic perspective into cultural studies, the Akhila Bharatiya Sharana Sahitya Parishat and Ramanashree Foundation bestowed upon him the “Ramanashree Sharana Sahitya Research Award” for the year 2018, with great satisfaction and respect.
Copyright © 2024 Ramanashree Awards . All Rights Reserved. Crafted by Pixelsbrew