Narayana, a well known Kannada scholar, academic and literary figure, passed away late Thursday night after his health condition deteriorated. He was admitted to hospital but could not be saved. Narayana lived in Yelahanka, Bengaluru.
He is survived by his wife H.S. Srimathi, son and daughter. He died while doing academic work that contributed to Kannada language studies, linguistics, and literary criticism.
Early Life and Education
Narayana was born in 1948 at Kampalapura village of Periyapatna taluk in Mysuru district. He did his postgraduate studies in Kannada in Bangalore University, where he developed a strong academic interest in language and literature.
He later got a PhD under the guidance of G.S. Shivarudrappa, Kannada poet and scholar. His academic career laid the foundation for a lifelong career in teaching, research and development of Kannada studies.
Academic Career and Contributions to Kannada
Narayana started his professional career as a lecturer in Bengaluru’s National College. He then joined the Kannada Study Centre at Bangalore University, where he taught linguistics and literary criticism.
His work in these areas helped shape academic discussion on Kannada language, literary theory and linguistics. Over time, he became associated with several important institutions in Karnataka.
He was also at Kannada University in Hampi, where he held many administrative and academic positions (Dean of Faculty of Languages, Registrar and Acting Vice-Chancellor).
His responsibilities at the university included not only teaching and research but also academic administration and institutional development.
Served as Chairman of Kuvempu Bhasha Bharati Authority
Narayana was also chairman of Kuvempu Bhasha Bharati Authority, which is an important institution for language and literary activities in Karnataka.
Through his academic and administrative activities, he was linked to Kannada scholarship and literary growth. Teaching, research, literary criticism and institutional leadership were part of his work.
Recipient of Several Prestigious Awards
For his work in Kannada language and literature, Narayana received many honours.
Awards he received were the Central Sahitya Akademi Award, Karnataka Sahitya Akademi Award and Karnataka Rajyotsava Award. These honoured his work and standing in Kannada literary and academic circles.
His passing is a great loss to the Kannada academic community. His career as a teacher, researcher and leader in major educational institutions has been a service to the Kannada language and literature.
Narayana’s life journey from Kampalapura in Mysuru district to prominent academic positions in Karnataka is a testimony of his commitment to education and Kannada scholarship.
Comments