The process of compiling the Kannada Folk Encyclopaedia, which is being taken up by the Karnataka Folklore University at Gotagodi here, was formally launched on Monday.
Folk expert and honorary editor of the encyclopaedia Hi.Shi. Ramachandregowda, who launched the work, stressed the need to make the project a model one by compiling an encyclopaedia that not only provided comprehensive knowledge about folklore of Karnataka, but also introduce indigenous knowledge.
Prof. Ramachandregowda said there was a need to make the encyclopaedia completely different from the Kannada vishwakoshas that were available. The encyclopaedia should do more than just give information on subjects and articles, he said.
He stressed the need to involve experts from other fields also if the encyclopaedia was to emerge as a comprehensive work.
Chief editor of the encyclopaedia Ha.Ti. Krishnegowda said the compilation of an encyclopaedia was a tedious and challenging job that required patience and perseverance. He said the encyclopaedia would be published in 10 volumes, and that united and concerted efforts were required for the success of the project.
Presiding over the function, Vice-Chancellor of the university Ambalike Hiriyanna said the university had embarked on the ambitious project utilising the limited resources that the State government had provided.
He said the focus would be on compiling the encyclopaedia in a time-bound manner. He sought everyone’s cooperation in bringing out the encyclopaedia.
Registrar D.B. Naik, Registrar (Evaluation) S.C. Ramesh, Dean M. Chandra Pujari, senior research officer K. Premkumar, guest lecturer Ramu Mulagi were present.
Later, a meeting was held to discuss the action plan to compile the encyclopaedia.
