Writers and activists rally behind Janagere Venkataramaiah for Kannada Sahitya Parishad presidency

Writers and activists gathered at the Chowdeshwari temple in Sigandur, Sagara taluk, Shivamogga, and resolved to back activist‑journalist Janagere Venkataramaiah for the post of president of the Kannada Sahitya Parishad.

What Happened

The meeting on Sunday saw many parishad members, including former office‑bearers, take part. Speakers included H. Ramappa, trustee of the Sigandur temple, D. Manjunath, president of the Shivamogga District Kannada Sahitya Parishad, and several noted writers.

Reactions

Jayaprakash Gowda, president of the Karnataka Sangha in Mandya, warned that the Parishad must not become a platform for authoritarian attitudes. He recalled that the institution was founded by the Mysore rulers to act as a bridge between the common people and the ruling class, but recent control by retired officials threatens that purpose. Gowda urged support for Venkataramaiah’s candidature in the upcoming elections. Janagere Venkataramaiah said he had visited multiple districts and spoken to parishad members. He alleged that retired senior bureaucrats are trying to win the presidency by flaunting money power and seeking to amend the bylaws for dictatorial control.

Context

The Kannada Sahitya Parishad is a cultural body aimed at promoting the Kannada language and literature. Historically it has served as a link between grassroots writers and state authorities, a role that activists say is now under pressure from senior officials seeking to dominate its leadership.