Publishing house with a mission
Established by writer and activist Basavaraj Sulebhavi, 60, of Vijayapura, this publishing house has been named after Ladai, his weekly newspaper, which folded up due to logistical issues.
Ladai, colloquially means struggle. After obtaining a Master's degree from Dharwad University, Sulebhavi not only worked as a part-time lecturer, but also as a reporter of a Kannada daily for nearly a decade in Gadag district. As a journalist, Sulebhavi focussed on inequality in society and highlighted the issues faced by marginalised sections. However, it was his passion for writing and social change that led him to publication of books.
As the state convener of 'Bandaya Sahitya', Sulebhavi organised several literary conventions across Karnataka to amplify the voices of the oppressed and marginalised sections of society. 'We wanted to give voice to the voiceless and create a platform for new writers committed to the struggle against injustice and inequality in society through the pen,' Sulebhavi told TNSE.
'Ladai Prakashana is committed to publishing works that attempt to address social discrimination, communalism, caste injustice, and highlight the struggle by marginalised communities. Such works must be factual and people-oriented,' he said.
Ladai Prakashana has published 302 books so far, with the number growing from a modest four to nearly 20 titles a year. Its publications have received many awards and recognition from the state government for best design. Prominent among them are from the Karnataka Sahitya Academy and Kendra Sahitya Parishat.
It has published many books of progressive Tamil and Telugu writers in Kannada, ensuring that literature promoting social equality transcends linguistic barriers. 'Our first book, Bayarike (Thirst), a poetry anthology on women's issues by first-time writers, received overwhelming appreciation. Its author, Dr Vinaya, is one of the debutant writers encouraged by Ladai,' he said.
Ladai doesn't collect any fee from writers for publishing their works. They are funded by a network of like-minded individuals to keep the mission going. The books are affordably priced, reflecting the modest backgrounds of their authors.
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News18
8 hours ago
- News18
Godavaris iconic Pulasa fish now faces scarcity
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She noted that the pulasa fish found in the delta are also particularly flavorful, especially in areas where the fresh Godavari river water mixes with seawater near Narsapuram in West Godavari district. The blending of freshwater and saltwater (estuarine conditions) gives pulasa its unique taste, she said, and added that the fisherfolk classify female pulasa as 'chenal' and male as 'goddu'. 'The female fish is especially prized for its richer taste and commands a higher price. Though the fish has many bones, its preparation is key—traditionally cooked in clay pots over firewood. Pulasa tastes better after sitting for several hours," said the additional director. Angeli explained that Pulasa fish caught near Yanam and Kotipalli are cheaper as they have just entered the river from the sea and those caught from Kapileswarapuram and Alamuru are a bit pricy. But, the most expensive are the ones caught near Dowleswaram and Pottilanka, owing to their rich flavour. 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VV Rao, former additional director in the Fisheries Department said the tastiest pulasa is found only in the Godavari river and attributed this to the fish acquiring the characteristics crucial for its distinctive flavour during its brief sojourn in these waters. According to Elsevier, Hilsa enjoys great demand and exerts socio-cultural influences in West Bengal, prompting it to import the fish from Bangladesh to meet local demand and supplement its own catch. With several instances of Bangladesh engaging in 'hilsa diplomacy' with India, the neighbouring country also exported consignments of the fish as a gift to West Bengal during Durga Puja festival. Besides satiating the taste buds, pulasa is also a goldmine of nutrition, containing essential and poly-unsaturated fatty acis, lipids, minerals and amino acids, the publishing company said. PTI STH ROH (This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed - PTI) view comments First Published: July 21, 2025, 09:45 IST News agency-feeds Godavaris iconic Pulasa fish now faces scarcity Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
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