Dharwad Prepares for the 18th District Kannada Sahitya Sammelana
The 18th district Kannada Sahitya Sammelana is set to take place on March 30 and 31 at the Karnataka Vidyavardhaka Sangha hall in Dharwad, as announced by Kannada Sahitya Parishat district president Lingaraj Angadi. This literary conference promises a vibrant celebration of Kannada language and culture, featuring a packed schedule of events over two days.
Inaugural Ceremonies and Key Addresses
The Sammelana will commence on March 30 with the national flag hoisting by deputy commissioner Snehal R at 8am, followed by the Kannada flag hoisting by KVV Sangha vice-president Sanjeev Kulkarni. At 9am, Major (retd) Siddalingayya Hiremath, chief administrative officer of DIMHANS, will inaugurate the "Kannadakkagi Nadige" programme. The main inauguration of the meet is scheduled for 10.30am, led by former vice-chancellor of Akkamahadevi Women's University, Sabiha Bhoomigouda.
Sammelana president and writer Hema Pattanshetti will deliver the presidential address, setting the tone for the literary discussions. District minister Santosh Lad will inaugurate the literary exhibition of the conference president, while Union minister Pralhad Joshi and Sharana Sahitya Parishat president C Somashekhar will release books. MLA Arvind Bellad will inaugurate the book stall, with KVV Sangha president Chandrakant Bellad presiding over the proceedings.
Focus on Artificial Intelligence and Literary Sessions
A highlight of the first day is a seminar on "Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Opportunities" at 2pm. Sanket Patil will speak on "AI's impact on literary creation and translation," and HL Omprakash will address "AI: Education, employment, and future life," with Prof SM Shivaprasad presiding. This session underscores the integration of modern technology with traditional literary pursuits.
Later, at 4pm, a poetry session chaired by Prof SR Aashi will showcase poetic talents, followed by the inauguration of the cultural programme at 6pm by Vishweshwari Hiremath, adding an artistic flair to the event.
Second Day: Language, Literature, and Women's Contributions
On March 31, the focus shifts to deeper literary explorations. At 9.30am, writer Siddanagouda Patil will speak on ‘Kannada language and life,’ Shankar Halagatti on ‘Children's literature and magazines,’ and Venkatesh Machakanur on ‘The survival of Kannada schools,’ with Shivashankar Hiremath presiding.
A significant session on ‘Women's literature on a new path’ is scheduled for 11.30am. KR Siddagangamma will discuss "Women's novels: Gender equality," Shridhar Hegde Bhadhran on "Women's poetry: Expression and creativity," and M Usha on ‘Women's autobiographies: Narratives of inner lives,’ with Shalini Raghunath presiding.
Contemporary Discussions and Closing Ceremonies
At 3pm, a panel on contemporary literary thought will feature Nagaratna Parande on ‘Challenges in translation,’ Sudha Koujageri on ‘Language development and contemporary tensions,’ and Rekha Jogul on ‘The contribution of Basel Mission to Kannada literature.’ An interaction with the conference president is set for 3.30pm.
The event will conclude with a public meeting at 4.30pm and the valedictory ceremony at 5.30pm, where writer Vinaya Okkund will deliver the valedictory address. Legislative council chairman Basavaraj Horatti will preside over the closing, marking the end of this enriching literary gathering.
This Sammelana aims to foster literary discourse, promote Kannada heritage, and explore contemporary issues like AI, making it a must-attend for enthusiasts and scholars alike.
