S.L. Bhyrappa, the celebrated Kannada writer and recipient of the prestigious Saraswathi Samman award, who passed away in Bengaluru on September 24, received a poignant farewell with full State honours during his cremation in Mysuru on September 26.
The journey of Bhyrappa’s mortal remains from Bengaluru to Mysuru commenced on September 25. For several hours, his body lay in state at Kalamandira, allowing a vast gathering of admirers, well-wishers, and members of the public to pay their heartfelt last respects.
Among those who offered their condolences were prominent political figures, including former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, Mysuru district-in-charge Minister H.C. Mahadevappa, Union Minister of Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi, MLA T.S. Srivatsa, former MP Pratap Simha, and Mysuru District Deputy Commissioner G. Lakshmikanth Reddy.
On September 26, the revered writer’s body was taken to his residence in Kuvempunagar, a place he called home for decades, providing local residents a final opportunity to glimpse the departed soul. Following a series of traditional rituals, the mortal remains were transported to the crematorium nestled at the foot of the Chamundi Hills.
In a solemn observance of State protocols, police personnel fired three rounds into the air, a profound mark of respect for the deceased. The national flag, which had draped his coffin, was respectfully removed and handed over to his grieving family.
After the dignified State protocol, the traditional rites commenced. The funeral pyre was then lit by his sons, Ravi Shankar and Uday Shankar, along with other family members, bringing the ceremony to its conclusion.
A touching display of devotion was seen as approximately 150 individuals traveled all the way from Bhyrappa’s native village of Santeshivara in Hassan district to Mysuru, ensuring they could attend the final rites of their beloved literary icon.