Noted Kannada writer D. Javare Gowda, who passed away in Mysuru on Monday, will not only be known for enriching Kannada literature with his books, but also for his campaigns to ensure primacy to Kannada.
Even as he consistently promoted Kannada as the medium of instruction in schools, De. Ja. Gow. had attracted widespread attention by staging an indefinite fast demanding classical language status to Kannada. He had even threatened to return the Padma Shri conferred on him in 2001 to press for his demand.
He had fervently campaigned for implementation of the Sarojini Mahishi Report, which recommends reservation of jobs for Kannadigas.
Born to Deve Gowda and Chennamma at Chekkere in Channapatna taluk in Ramanagaram, De. Ja. Gow. was later influenced by poet laureate Kuvempu. After his M.A. in Kannada, he served the University of Mysore as professor. He wrote around 130 books. De. Ja. Gow. rose to become Vice-Chancellor of the university in 1969.
In recognition of his contribution to Kannada, the State government honoured him with the Karnataka Ratna and Pampa awards; he was also honoured with the Nadoja title.
It may be recalled that a large number of people from literary circles participated in a function organised at Kalamandira in Mysuru during July 2015 to celebrate his 100th birthday.
