Mangaluru Lit Fest, Mangaluru: “Universities and teachers are responsible for the neglect of language. In university curricula, only the summaries of stories and poems are taught, rather than providing an in-depth explanation. The languages can be truly understood only with deep analysis, which increases both values and language,” said Shatavadhani R. Ganesh.
Inaugurating the 8th edition of the Mangaluru Lit Fest., he said that his remarks should not be misunderstood.
“The summaries of works by poets like Pampa, D.V.G., and Kuvempu are taught, but deep study is missing. We need to understand values. Values mean understanding ourselves; they express what facts cannot,” he noted.
Earlier, the 8th edition of the Mangaluru Lit Fest was officially inaugurated by pulling the ‘Saraswathi Ratha’ (Chariot of Saraswathi). Delivering the keynote address, Ravi S., the Honorary Secretary of the Mythic Society, said, “Literature plays a significant role in shaping society. Intellectual growth is possible through reading and reflection. Lit Fests play a vital role in fostering critical thinking and creativity among the youth.”
Padmashri Dr. Meenakshi Jain and Bharat Foundation Trustee Brijesh Chowta were present at the event. Tributes were paid to Dr. S.L. Bhyrappa and Dr. Vinaya Hegde, who passed away recently. Lakshmi Mathadamule performed the invocation song. Dr. Vidya delivered the vote of thanks, and the program was hosted by Shaina D’Souza and RJ Abhishek Shetty.
*Exploring Values Through Literature:* In the inaugural session, Ajakkala Girish Bhat and Shatavadhani R. Ganesh engaged in a dialogue on the topic “Exploring Values Through Literature.” Speaking on values, R. Ganesh stated, “In the collective consciousness of Akhanda Bharat, values are present not only in literature but in all forms of art. Values conveyed through literature reside in the path of Dhwani (suggestion) and Rasa (essence/emotion). Sensitivity cannot be heightened through the intellect alone; it requires emotion (Bhava).”
Furthermore, regarding literary creation, he remarked, “Any literature created with a problem as its sole focus does not endure. One must observe the human psyche that lies at the depth of the problem.”
*Inauguration via the Pulling of the Saraswathi Ratha:* A unique highlight of the 8th edition of the Mangaluru Lit Fest was its official inauguration through the pulling of the ‘Saraswathi Ratha’ (Saraswathi Chariot), which was filled with books. The sight of the distinguished guests pulling the chariot onto the stage to mark the opening of the festival captured the attention of the entire audience.