The literary world mourns the passing of acclaimed writer S.L. Bhyrappa, who held a particularly cherished connection with the twin cities of Hubballi and Dharwad. Hubballi, in particular, was significant in his life, serving as the setting for his early career as a lecturer and the launchpad for one of his first literary ventures.
Just last year, in September 2024, Bhyrappa returned to Hubballi for a book release event hosted by Sahitya Prakashana. During this visit, he took time to revisit the very places that held such dear memories for him, a testament to his profound affection for the city.
M.A. Subramanya, editor-publisher of Sahitya Prakashana in Hubballi, recounted Bhyrappa’s early days. “Bhyrappa arrived in Hubballi in 1958, joining Sri Kadasiddeshwara Arts College as a lecturer of Logic and Psychology,” Subramanya shared with reporters on Wednesday. He spent two-and-a-half years there, and it was during this formative period that Subramanya’s uncle, Govindrao, published Bhyrappa’s novel, “Dharmashree,” through Sahitya Bhandara.
Subramanya further explained that Bhyrappa tutored a local bank manager’s daughter. The bank manager, familiar with Govindrao, then passed on the manuscript of “Dharmashree” to him, setting the stage for its publication.
Sahitya Bhandara went on to publish 1,000 copies of the novel, and Bhyrappa received an honorarium for his work, a significant step in his burgeoning literary career, as recalled by Mr. Subramanya.
Years later, in 2010, another of Mr. Bhyrappa’s notable works, “Kavalu,” was ceremoniously released at the Sawai Gandharva Hall, further cementing Hubballi’s place in his literary journey.
Beyond his academic role, Bhyrappa also shared his musical talents, offering lessons at Kasturi Sangeet Vidyalaya in Kalammana Agasi during his time as a lecturer. Mr. Subramanya fondly remembered Bhyrappa’s most recent visit, where he meticulously re-traced his old footsteps, culminating in a brief but meaningful stop at the Sahitya Bhandara bookstore on Broadway before his departure.
Dharwad, too, held a special place in Bhyrappa’s heart, with a vibrant connection to its literary scene. He was a familiar and active presence at all significant literary gatherings in the city.
On his many visits to Dharwad, he often found hospitality at the home of N.P. Bhat, son-in-law to the esteemed V.K. Gokak, and later at G.M. Hegde’s residence.
His commitment to the literary community was evident in his consistent participation in the Sahitya Sambhrama once it began in Dharwad. In recent years, he dedicated time to engaging with students and teachers at various educational institutions across Dharwad, sharing his insights and inspiring future generations.
It was in Dharwad, a city so central to his life, that a momentous announcement was made. In 2020, upon receiving the prestigious Ambikatanayadatta Award from the Da.Ra. Bendre National Memorial Trust, Mr. Bhyrappa declared that “Uttara Kanda” would be his final novel, signaling a potential conclusion to his remarkable writing career.