Halakatti played big role in conserving Vachana literature: MLC

Time of India

3 days ago

Mysuru: JD(S) MLC CN Manjegowda on Wednesday praised the contributions of FG Halakatti for the conservation, preservation, and promotion of Vachana literature, which has transformed the lives of millions of people across the country.
He spoke after inaugurating Vachana Literature Conservation Day, organised in memory of Halakatti at a function jointly organised by the district administration and the department of Kannada and culture, held at Kirurangamandir here.
He also highlighted the contributions of Halakatti, who was an advocate by profession in the North Karnataka region. Halakatti not only collected the Vachanas but also printed and published them, providing wide publicity to spread Vachanas among the masses.
People knew only about 50 vachanakaras, but Halakatti, through sheer hard work, determination, and dedication, collected the vachanas written by more than 250 vachanakaras, Sharanas of the 12th century. He also helped in their (vachana) conservation and preservation. Halakatti played a key role in translating various Vachanas into English language. He advised students to imbibe the qualities of Halakatti and strive for the promotion of Vachana literature.
Additional deputy commissioner P Shivaraju also remembered the contributions of Halakatti for the promotion of Vachana literature outside the state and his sacrifice for its promotion.
JSS Mahavidyapeetha Publications wing director Morabada Mallikarjuna also recalled Halakatti's contributions in organising Vachana recitals in public music events and translating Vachanas into English. He was also instrumental in translating them into several other Indian languages.
Joint director of Kannada and culture VM Mallikarjunaswamy and assistant director MD Sudarshan were present.