A popular writer, Tejasvi was different from the rest in many ways. After completing his higher studies, he took to farming in a forest area, rather than go for a lucrative job. He revealed, in an introduction to one of his books, that he was greatly influenced by the philosophy of Lohia, the artistic ways of Kuvempu (his father) and the experimentation of Karanth. True to this statement, his creative works showed his deep concern for the under-privileged and spoke about the struggle for social rights and the movements for protecting the natural environment and the interests of farmers.
Initially, Tejasvi brought out a collection of Navya poems, which he confessed were urban-based and anti-life. Thereafter, he started writing about the people around him. This self-correction won him admirers, and a host of young writers followed him.
A master story-teller, Tejasvi had an element of suspense built into his writings whatever be the core theme. In this book, his works are presented under different heads such as novel, poetry, critique, travelogue, environmental stories, and translations.
K.P. PURNACHANDRA TEJASVI — Life and Writings : Karigowda Beechanahalli, Sahitya Akademi, 35, Rabindra Bhavan, Ferozeshah Road, New Delhi-110001. Rs. 150.
