Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Feb 10: Renowned scholar and Padma Bhushan awardee for 2026, Shatavadhani Dr R Ganesh, said that the hallmark of classical literature lies in its ability to constantly offer new experiences and that it never finishes saying what it has to say. To understand the cultural strength of a nation, one must examine how deeply its classical literature is rooted, he observed, adding that even modern nations have preserved their classical literary traditions, which remain interwoven with everyday life.
Dr Ganesh was delivering a special lecture titled ‘The Necessity of Classical Literature’, organised by the Kannada Department of Mumbai University at Kusumagraj Marathi Language Bhavan, Vidyanagari, Kalina, Santacruz East, last Friday. The programme was held as part of the celebrations marking 125 years of the establishment of Kannada studies at Mumbai University.
Releasing Dr Uma Ramarao’s PhD thesis titled ‘Bahu Nelegalada Beragu’, Dr Ganesh said that a literary work requires the test of time to earn recognition and respect. He remarked that classical literature removes the sense of orphaned consciousness and remains a constant companion in daily life. Classical works, he noted, explain the timeless nature of human behaviour and convey that nothing about human nature is truly unexpected. Immersion in classical literature, he said, always sustains readers, offering a complete and cost-free joy, akin to an invisible lamp. He stressed the importance of analysing the significance of classical works through their themes, content, characters and narratives.
Head of the department Prof Dr G N Upadhya delivered the introductory address, stating that Mumbai University has made a significant contribution to the growth of literary culture over the past 125 years. He said the Kannada Department has functioned alongside more than 56 academic departments at the university. Recalling history, he noted that Shyamarao Vitthal Kaikini and R H Deshpande worked tirelessly to establish Kannada studies at Mumbai University and ensure the growth of the language in the Mumbai region, followed by the efforts of several organisations. Prof Upadhya described Dr R Ganesh as the only Shatavadhani in Kannada, who has astonished scholars by performing Ashtavadhana in eight languages, calling him a marvel in the world of scholarship. He also praised Dr Uma Ramarao as an achiever, noting that her PhD thesis has received appreciation from several scholars, including Dr S L Bhyrappa. Dr Ganesh was honoured with a shawl and a book as a mark of respect.
Dr Uma Ramarao introduced Dr Ganesh and spoke about the simplicity of eminent writer Dr S L Bhyrappa. She said Bhyrappa had given her the freedom to openly express both appreciation and criticism of aspects of his novels without hesitation. She also gratefully remembered her guides and mentors, including Dr Upadhya, Dr R Ganesh, Prof L V Shantakumari and Lakshmi S Tolpadi, who supported her during her research journey.
During the interaction session with the speaker, Kala Bhagwat, Vikram Joshi, Dr G N Upadhya, Narayan Navilekar, Amita Bhagwat, Uma Ramarao and others participated. Students of the department and Kannada literature enthusiasts from the city were present. Research scholar Kala Bhagwat rendered the welcome song, while Vidya Ramakrishna introduced the book. Assistant Professor Dr Poornima S Shetty of the Kannada Department compered the programme and proposed the vote of thanks.