Soul of South
The Book Brahma Literature Festival celebrates a deep connection between language and culture, particularly the rich 2500-year legacy of South Indian languages (Kannada, Tamil, Malayalam, and Telugu) in shaping the world literature. With over 700 languages spoken in India alone, South Indian literature boasts of classics like “Silappadikaram” and “Ramacharitam,” and has significantly contributed to 19 out of 58 Jnanpith Award winners. This inaugural event aims to unite writers, publishers, and readers on a platform that fosters interaction and celebrates the unique Soul of South Indian Literature.
Our Mentors
Dr Hampa Nagarajaiah
Writer, ProfessorAlso known as Hampanā, born on October 7, 1936, Hampa Nagarajaiah is a respected scholar in Kannada language and Jainism from Hampasandra Village, Karnataka. Educated at Maharaja's College, Mysuru, Hampa Nagarajaiah holds BA (Honours) and PG degrees in Kannada under influential mentors like Kuvempu. He served as a lecturer in Kannada at various colleges and obtained his PhD from Bengaluru University. Hampanā has delivered lectures on Jainism and linguistics at Universities worldwide and held administrative roles in Bengaluru University. He has received numerous awards, including the Naadoja Award from Kannada University in 2006 and the prestigious Pampa Prashasti from the Government of Karnataka in 2016. He's known for his work "Spectrum of Classical Literature in Kannada," which highlights the language, culture, and tradition across five volumes.
Dr Narahalli Balasubramanya
AuthorBorn on September 5, 1953, Dr Narahalli Balasubrahmanya is a distinguished Kannada critic from Narahalli, Mandya district. He earned his PhD from Bengaluru University and held various esteemed positions in the academia, including being Principal at Seshadripuram College. Known for works like "Kuvempu Natakagala Adhyayana" and "Hanateya Haadu," he has been honored with dedicated books in his name, such as "Kannada Vimarsha Viveka" and "Neladani".
Dr Mallepuram G Venkatesh
Director, Samvit Research FoundationBorn on June 5, 1952, Prof. Mallepuram G. Venkatesha is a distinguished author and researcher from Nelamangala, Bengaluru district. As the inaugural Chancellor of Karnataka Sanskrit University, the professor has authored over 80 books covering Kannada literature, culture, and language. The professor’s remarkable contributions have garnered numerous accolades, including the Karnataka Sahitya Akademi Honorary Award in 2008, the Karnataka Rajyotsava Prashasti in 2009, and the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Award from the Social Welfare Department in 2011, in recognition of his significant impact on literature.
Curation Committee
Dr M. S. Ashadevi
A distinguished Kannada critic, Dr Asha Devi was born on February 26, 1966 and hails from Neralige in Davangere district. A post-graduate in MA from Bengaluru University, Dr Asha Devi pursued her PhD thesis on "Influence of Renaissance Criticism on Western Criticism" under the guidance of D.R. Nagaraj. Notable among her works are "Urichammalike" (a translation of D.R. Nagaraja's "The Flaming Feet"), "Bharatha Pravesha," and "Bharatada Bangara P. T. Usha." She is at present, the Kannada Professor at Maharani Science College in Bangalore.
Dr O L N Swamy
Born on September 22, 1953, Dr Swamy is a distinguished Kannada critic and translator from Hoskote near Bangalore. Holding MA degrees in both English and Kannada from the University of Mysuru, he retired as an English teacher. With over 60 published works, Dr Swamy has left a significant mark on Kannada literature. His accolades include the Karnataka Sahitya Akademi Award and the Rajyotsava Award from the Government of Karnataka.
Dr Rajendra Chenni
Painter, Sculptor, Conceptual ArtistDr Chenny is a renowned Kannada critic from Nagargali village in Khanapura taluk of Belagavi district. Born on October 21, 1955, Dr Chenny obtained his MA degree from Karnataka University and an honorary PhD from Mysuru University. With a career spanning various teaching positions, he currently serves as the Head of the English Department at Kuvempu University. Dr Chenny is known for his active involvement in social movements alongside his prolific writing in both Kannada and English. His notable works include "Amorrtate Mattu Parisara," "Bendre Kavya Sampradaya mattu Svantate," and "Deshivada." For his contributions, he has been honored with prestigious awards, including the Karnataka Sahitya Academy Prize.
Dr Vasundhara Bhupathi
Is a distinguished medical professional known for her exceptional organizational skills and prolific writing. Originally from Raichur, she was on June 5, 1962, and pursued her education in the field of Ayurveda, obtaining her B.A.M.S. (Integrated) degree from Bengaluru University. Her illustrious career includes notable achievements such as receiving fellowships from Manipal Deemed University (FAGE) and the International Council of Ayurveda (USA) (FICA). Beyond her medical expertise, Dr Bhupathi is a passionate writer with a penchant for literature. Her writings span across various genres including health, science, first aid, hygiene, and healthcare, which have been featured in over 1000 magazines nationwide. With a repertoire of more than 60 published works, her writings have garnered widespread acclaim and popularity, prompting numerous reprints.
Surekha
An Indian visual artist exploring forms through installations, video, and photography since 1996, Surekha’s works delve into gender, ecology, and socio-political aesthetics, exhibited internationally. Educated at Ken School of Arts and Vishwabharati University, she completed a film course at No.w.here London, in 2006. Surekha's exhibits include prestigious venues like the National Gallery of Modern Art (Bengaluru) and the Tate Modern. She's been involved in collectives like BAR1 and taught at art universities. As a jury member, she's contributed to projects like Bosch art grants and Pro Helvetia Fellowships. Surekha resides and works in Bengaluru.
Organizing Committee
- Devu Pattar
- Vinay Kumar J
- Harish Nair
- Satish Shetty Vakvady
- Raghavendra Kanchan
- Swathi Rao
Media Committee
- H Bharath Kumar
- Surabhi Shastry
Technical Committee
- Prasanna Kumar Jain
- Veeresha Hogesoppinavar
Festival Director
Satish Chapparike
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