Mysore :

JSS Mahavidyapeetha, under its Sri Shivarathreeshwara Cultural Endowment, presented ‘Sri Shivarathreeshwara award’ to Retd. Kannada Professor Dr. Veeranna Dande and Kannada Professor Dr. Jayashree Dande of Gulbarga University for their book ‘12th century Sharana memorials’ and their contributions to Kannada literature at a function held on Jan. 3 at Rajendra Bhavan in JSS Hospital premises here.

Suttur Seer Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamiji, who graced the occasion, presented the award which carries a cash prize of Rs. 25,000 and a plaque to the couple.

Dr. Veeranna Dande, who spoke on the occasion, said ‘Since I had the experience of having worked in folk field, collection of information on Sharana memorials was easy. Myself and my wife Jayashree have toured 91 villages in North Karnataka, collected information on 190 memorials in three years and compiled the book. This is not only an information book but also serves as a research work.’

Writer Prof. Morabada Mallikarjuna said the book has been written concentrating on Basavakalyana. The 12th century Sharana memorials have been depicted in their original form. The special feature of the book is that in addition to real aspects of life, it contains aspects on communal harmony of Hindu and Muslim communities, he said.

Mysore University Vice-Chancellor Prof. K.S. Rangappa presided. JSS Mahavidyapeetha Publication Department Director Prof. K.C. Shivappa welcomed.

About the authors: Dr. Jayashree Dande, Faculty, Dept. of Kannada Studies, Gulbarga University, has to her credit, more than 45 novels. Her special field of interest is ‘Vachana studies.’

Dr. Veeranna Dande, Retd. Kannada Professor, Gulbarga University, has about three decades of experience in teaching, research and administration. He is an expert in Vachana Sahitya, Folk culture and also a columnist. He has authored more than 50 books.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> General News / January 05th, 2014