Mysuru is currently observing a somber moment as the mortal remains of the revered novelist and Saraswati Samman laureate, S.L. Bhyrappa, arrived on Thursday. Preparations are underway for his final rites, which are scheduled for Friday, September 26.
Bhyrappa, who passed away in Bengaluru on Wednesday, was brought to Kalamandira in Mysuru. A vast crowd of admirers, friends, and fellow literary enthusiasts gathered to pay their heartfelt last respects to the departed soul.
Among the prominent figures present was former Chief Minister and Haveri MP, Basavaraj Bommai. He lauded Bhyrappa’s indelible mark on literature, recognizing him as a truly great literary figure.
Bommai shared a personal anecdote, recalling a time when, as Chief Minister, Bhyrappa approached him solely to request water for his ancestral village. This, Bommai emphasized, exemplified the writer’s humble nature. Despite receiving numerous accolades, Bhyrappa remained deeply rooted, his simplicity enhancing the prestige of every award he received.
H.C. Mahadevappa, the Minister overseeing Mysuru district affairs, also paid his respects, acknowledging that Bhyrappa’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the literary landscape. He highlighted how Bhyrappa’s novels, deeply rooted in real-life experiences, possessed a profound ability to resonate with and provoke thought within society.
Mahadevappa confirmed that Bhyrappa’s last rites would be conducted with full State honors, adding that discussions regarding a suitable memorial for the distinguished writer would follow consultations with his family.
Echoing these sentiments, MLC A.H. Vishwanath praised Bhyrappa as a towering figure in Kannada literature. He expressed regret that such an eminent writer had not been honored with the prestigious Jnanapeetha award, remarking that irrespective of any political oversight, Bhyrappa’s legacy will undoubtedly endure.
Former MP Pratap Simha announced that prior to the final rites, Bhyrappa’s body would be moved to his Kuvempunagar residence, providing an opportunity for the public to offer their final respects.