Shivamogga: Kuvempu National Award 2025 was presented to Konkani and Marathi bilingual writer Mahabaleshwar Sail at a ceremony held in Kuppalli, near Thirthahalli, on Kuvempu’s 121st birth anniversary.Speaking at the event, state school education and literacy minister S Madhu Bangarappa highlighted Kuvempu’s emphasis on universal humanism, rationalism, and love for Kannada. “Kuvempu’s literature is a grand synthesis of modernity, humanity, and linguistic beauty, elevating Kannada literature to new heights,” he said.Madhu recalled late CM S Bangarappa’s role in honouring Kuvempu and Rajkumar with Karnataka’s highest award, Karnataka Ratna. He announced govt support for grand celebrations of Kuvempu’s legacy and initiatives, such as incorporating his works in the school curriculum.Mahabaleshwar Sail expressed gratitude, calling Kuvempu an inspiration and his message timeless. Sharath Ananthamurthy, vice-chancellor of Kuvempu University, and BL Shankar, president of Kuvempu Trust, also spoke about Kuvempu’s contributions to literature. The event also featured the release of a 2026 calendar based on Kuvempu’s work ‘Bommanahalli Kindarijogi’, marking its centenary.
