Literary Legacy of Poornachandra Tejaswi Illuminated at St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur

Puttur, 22 April 2025: St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, hosted an intellectually engaging lecture titled “Poornachandra Tejaswi and Student Readers”, offering students a compelling glimpse into the life, philosophy, and enduring relevance of one of Kannada literature’s most profound literary minds, K.P. Poornachandra Tejaswi. The event was jointly organized by the Department of Kannada and the Kannada Sangha of the college.

Delivering the keynote lecture, Prof. Dr Narendra Rai Derla, retired Professor of Kannada, highlighted the increasing importance of Tejaswi’s values in a post-pandemic world. “The world has changed after the pandemic. In these times when our capacity to listen and feel is waning, it is imperative that the spirit of Tejaswi be sown within our minds,” he remarked.

Dr Derla described Tejaswi as a fearless thinker who lived authentically and unconventionally. “He lived without masks, without seeking authority or accolades. In doing so, he defied societal norms and showed us that there is another way to live — truthfully and in harmony with nature,” he said.

While expressing concern over the declining interest in reading among students, Dr Derla acknowledged that Tejaswi continues to be one of the most read Kannada authors among youth. He urged aspiring writers to remain connected to their roots: “If you wish to become good writers, do not be enticed by the glitter of city life; instead, listen to the voices of the villages,” he advised, echoing Tejaswi’s own affinity for rural life and nature.

Presiding over the event, Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro, Principal of the College, reflected on the transformation in academic culture. “In the post-pandemic era, the attentive silence required to absorb ideas is becoming increasingly rare. Students today are more often drawn to stimulating distractions than to soul-stirring inspirations,” he observed. He encouraged students to embrace opportunities that foster critical and creative thinking.

Also present at the event was Dr Vijaykumar Moleyar, Vice Principal and Head of the Department of Kannada.

The programme began with a prayer by Avani and team. Binoy Vinay D’Souza extended a warm welcome, while Pratheeksha K. delivered the vote of thanks. The event was compered by Likhitha P.