Rons Bantwal
Mumbai, Apr 21: Eminent Sanskrit scholar and former principal of K J Somaiya College, Mumbai, Dr S K Bhavani emphasised that literature is essential for the development of humanity. He said that a person without music, literature, and intellectual thought is akin to an animal, and highlighted the importance of literature in nurturing human values.
He was speaking at the Sri Gurunarayana Literary Award (2025) presentation ceremony held at Sri Gurunarayana Sabhagruha in Billava Bhavan, Santacruz East, on Saturday. The award, instituted annually by the Billava Association Mumbai in memory of late M B Kukyan, was conferred on Mumbai-based journalist and writer Srinivas Jokatte.
Praising the awardee, Dr Bhavani described Srinivas Jokatte as a soft-spoken and simple personality who has made a distinct mark in the field of literature. He noted that Jokatte has authored 47 works and is recognised not only as a writer but also as a journalist and travelogue author. Through his travels across India and abroad, he has shared his experiences and insights into different cultures and traditions through his writings.
The programme was presided over by association president Harish G Amin. Honorary secretary of Buntara Sangha Mumbai, Dr R K Shetty, attended as chief guest, while award sponsor Vinay M Kukyan, association vice-presidents Purushottam S Kotyan and Mohan C Kotyan, honorary chief treasurer Ravi S Sanil, former working president of Chembur local office M N Karkera, cultural sub-committee working president Naveen Paduinna, and secretary G K Kenchanakere were present. Srinivas Jokatte was honoured with a shawl, memento, citation, flowers, and a cash prize of ?25,000 along with the award.
Sulochana V Mabiyan from the women’s wing rendered the invocation. Honorary general secretary of the association Harish G Salian delivered the introductory address. Joint secretary Vishwanath Thonse and Akshaya committee member Kusuma Chandra Amin introduced the guests. Dr Ishwara Alevur, chief editor of the association’s mouthpiece Akshaya monthly, and editor Harish Hejamadi spoke about the award and the awardee. Joint secretary Harish G Poojari Kokkarne compered the programme and delivered the vote of thanks.
As part of the cultural programme, members from various local offices and Khar Shanishwara Mandir presented dance performances. Women’s wing vice-president Bharati A Anchan compered the cultural events.