Three More Plays of Kuvempu (An Old and Rare Book)

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Foreword This work is a result of a systematic and disciplined undertaking by Professor Ramegowda (Ragow) as Visiting Professor of "Kuvempu Kavyadhyayana Peetha' in the Kuvempu Institute of Kannada Studies, University of Mysore. He wanted to bring out the English Versions of at least some important works of Kuvempu during his tenure, that is, 2009-10. As such he selected three plays of Kuvempu and some thirteen discursive essays. The well-known writers like Prof. D.A. Shankar, Prof. N.T. Bhat, Prof. N.S. Raghunath and Prof. C. Naganna responded very readily to Dr. Ragow's request and accomplished the translation of the said works well within time.

It's true that Poet-Laureate Kuvempu has worked in all genres of literature; but his most valuable and unique writings are to be located among his discursive works. He had declared a war against all forms of superstition and narrow-mindedness; the hierarchy of caste and creed invited his wrath and he seemed to reserve a special weapon of words to attack this evil relentlessly. Although a perceptible change is taking place in our society, since old habits die hard, Kuvempu's thoughts are still relevant. I am indeed grateful to Prof. C. Naganna for translating these I am extreme essays into English finding an appropriate wavelength with the original and treating the task as a labour of love. In addition to the thirteen discursive essays three plays of Kuvempu have also been translated. Jalagara as a play reflects intense social consciousness. It reveals the structure of our society which is beset with soul killing stratification. Similarly, one particular night in Siddhartha's life marks the end of all his earthly ties and he goes in search of redemption of humanity. From then onwards innumerable writers and poets have contemplated on this aspect of Siddhartha's life but Kuvempu's approach holds a mirror to his genius. The description of such a night is the theme of the play, Maharatri. Balidana is not merely a mechanical recording of sacrifice and independence; it embraces the philosophical meanings embedded in such lofty ideals which made possible 1947 in the annals of Indian history. 'Kuvempu Kavyadhyayana Peetha' records its grateful thanks to Prof. D.A. Shankar, Prof. N.T. Bhat and Prof. N.S. Raghunath for ably translating the three plays into English.

Professor V.G. Talawar, the Hon'ble Vice Chancellor of the University of Mysore has encouraged this project at all levels besides giving valuable suggestions in locating 'Kuvempu Photo-Gallery' at the renowned Folklore Museum of Mysore University. I am deeply beholden to the Vice-Chancellor. I am grateful to all the four translators for responding to our request so positively. Their enthusiasm and generosity will go a long way in encouraging us in our future ventures.

**Contents and Sample Pages**