Kannappajja inspired me to write initially: Shyamala Madhav in the Sahitya Akademi Programme
Mangaluru: “It was my grandfather Louis Kannappa, whom we used to call Kanati (one who wears thick spectacles), who was the first inspiration for my foray into writing. Louis Kannappa, who had his M.A. in English Literature from Madras University and L.T. degree served as the Principal of Government College Mangalore (presently University College). He also served as the district education officer for Dakshina Kannada District. He was also the first rank holder for St Aloysius College, Mangalore, in Maths and Latin language. My grandfather taught Maths to my brother and introduced me to English literature”, said eminent writer Shyamala Madhav.
She was speaking in a programme “Through My Window” organized by Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, National Academy of Letters, in association with Konkani Writers and Artistes’ Association, in St Aloysius College on September 2, 2023. Shyamala Madhav, who is the great granddaughter of Louis Kannappa, the founder of the first Konkani periodical ‘Dirven’, spoke about the life and work of Sardar Louis Kannappa in the programme.
Sahitya Akademi, Language Advisory Board Member for Konkani, H. M. Pernal, welcomed the gathering and introduced speaker of the day Shyamala Madhav to the audience. The lecture was followed by a discussion. Mr. N. G. Mohan, brother of Shyamala Madhav, joined the discussion session and answered audience queries.
Executive Council Member and Konkani Convenor, Poet Melvyn Rodrigues, VISION KONKANI promoter, NRI entrepreneur & philanthropist Sri Michael D Souza, Catholic Association of South Kanara President Capt Vincent Pais, Chairman of MCC Bank Sri Anil Lobo, Directors of Educare Scholarship Fund Mr. Stephen Pinto and Mr. Oswald Rodrigues, Rev Dr Melwyn Pinto, Director of the Institute of Konkani, St Aloysius College, Konkani Writers and Artistes’ Association President Ronald Sequeira, Secretary, Mrs Florine Roche, Treasure, Mr. Roshan Madtha, and members present on the occasion.
