K. Shivaram Karanth

K. Shivaram Karanth Biography

K. Shivaram Karanth was a noted writer from Udupi, Karnataka. He received Jnanpith award for Kannada work, Mookajjiya Kanasugalu in the year 1977. He was multi-facet personality. He was a writer, social activist, environmentalist, Yakshagana artist, film maker and thinker. He is often regarded as ‘Rabindranath Tagore of Modern India’ by Ramachandra Guha for his contribution to novel category post independence. He is always regarded as one of the greatest novelists of Kannada literature. He returned his Padma Bhushan honor in protest against the Emergency, imposed by Indira Gandhi. Other awards and appreciations include - Sahitya Academy award in the year 1958, Pampa Award, Swedish Academy award and Tulsi Samman. He has also received Special Jury Award / Special Mention (Feature Film) as a Writer in National awards.

Shivaram Karanth was born on 10 October 1902 in Udupi. He completed his primary education in Kundapura and Mangalore. During his college studies, he was attracted towards Gandhi’s principles and took part in freedom struggle movement. He did not complete his education and went to participate in the Non-cooperation movement. By this time, he has already started writing. Mai Managala Suliyalli, Ade OOru Ade Mara, Alida Mele, Mookajjiya Kanasugalu, Svapnada Hole, Sarsammana Samadhi, Shaneeshwarana Neralinalli, Kudiyara Koosu, Marali Mannige, Bettada Jeeva and Chomana Dudi are the most noted works of Karanth, still read by millions. He wrote at the rate of one novel an year and has published 47 novels in his life time. Apart from novels, he also wrote 31 plays, 4 short stories, 6 books of essays and sketches and 13 books on art.

Apart from writings, he is also known for other activities. He was the first person built the first children's toy-train in Asia which was later copied in Cubbon Park of Bangalore. Through Karanth tried his luck in politics by becoming a candidate of Parliament elections, he was defeated.

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Updated: June 12, 2018