Category: Heritage

Mangaluru: Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy announces honorary, book awards for 2024

The Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy has announced its honorary and book awards for 2024, academy president Stany Alvares said.

Addressing a press conference on Thursday, March 13, he said the awards will be presented on March 23 at Konkani Bhavan, Vijayanagar, Mysuru, in an event organized by the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy in association with the Konkani Christian Association, Mysuru.

Honorary awards:

  • Konkani Literature: Patrick Camil Moras
  • Konkani Art: Joel Pereira
  • Konkani Folk: Sobina Mothesh Kambrekar

Book awards:

  • Felcy Lobo – Palva Ponth (poetry)
  • Valerian Sequiera – Shetham Batam Thotamni (novel)

The honorary awards carry a cash prize of Rs 50,000, while the book awards come with Rs 25,000 each.

The award ceremony will be inaugurated by Chamaraja constituency MLA K Harish Gowda and presided over by academy president Stany Alvares. MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah, MLC Dr Thimayya, Rajyotsava awardee Valerian D’Souza, and joint director of the Kannada and Culture Department, Mysuru region, V N Mallikarjuna Swamy, will be the guests of honor.

“We received Rs 58 lac in funding for the academy last year and have requested Rs 1 crore this year,” Alvares said.

He further mentioned that Rs 2-3 crore is needed to complete the construction of Konkani Bhavan at Urwa, which remains unfinished. “We are doing our best to secure the necessary funds to complete the work,” he added.

Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy members Naveen Lobo, Ronald Crasta, Elias Fernandes, and others were present.

source/content: daijiworld.com (headline edited)

India Post pays tribute to Puneeth Rajkumar with special edition picture postcards on his 50th b’day

 In a heartfelt tribute to late Kannada superstar Puneeth Rajkumar, India Post has launched a special series of picture postcards to mark his 50th birth anniversary.

The commemorative postcards, featuring iconic moments from Puneeth’s illustrious career, were unveiled in the presence of his family members and senior postal department officials. The initiative aims to celebrate the actor’s enduring legacy and immense contribution to Kannada cinema.

Fans and well-wishers have welcomed the move, calling it a fitting tribute to the beloved ‘Power Star.’ Puneeth, known for his philanthropy and charismatic screen presence, continues to hold a special place in the hearts of millions.

The decision to name the road after Puneeth was approved by the government in recognition of his immense contributions to cinema and society. Former revenue minister R Ashoka had praised Puneeth’s philanthropic spirit, highlighting his selfless act of endorsing Nandini Milk, a Karnataka Milk Federation product, without charging a fee, solely to support farmers.

The inauguration event saw the presence of Puneeth’s family, including his brothers, Kannada stars Shivarajkumar and Raghavendra Rajkumar, along with his wife, Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar.

In another acknowledgment of his influence, prime minister Narendra Modi, during a gathering in Bengaluru in February 2023, invited Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar as a special guest. The event also featured prominent film personalities such as ‘KGF: Chapter 2’ star Yash, ‘Kantara’ actor-director Rishab Shetty, and Hombale Films producer Vijay Kiragandur.

Puneeth Rajkumar, the youngest son of Kannada cinema legend Dr Rajkumar, passed away on October 29, 2021. A versatile artiste who shined on both the big and small screens, he was equally admired for his charitable initiatives and humanitarian efforts.

source/content: daijiworld.com (headline edited)

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah inaugurates memorial auditorium of freedom fighter Gangadhar Deshpande in Belagavi

The memorial auditorium has been constructed over an area of approximately 15 guntas at a cost of Rs 1.58 crore.

As part of the ‘Gandhi Bharat’ programme, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah inaugurated the memorial auditorium of freedom fighter Gangadhar Deshpande, also known as the ‘Lion of Karnataka,’ along with his photo gallery in Ramtirth Nagar, Belagavi, on Thursday.

The memorial auditorium has been constructed over an area of approximately 15 guntas at a cost of Rs 1.58 crore. It features a statue of Gangadhar Deshpande, a photo gallery showcasing rare photographs of the 1924 Congress session, moments of Gangadhar Deshpande with Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders, a wire fence, pavers, and a garden.

The event was attended by the President of the Centenary Celebration Committee and Law Minister H.K. Patil, honorary chairman of the Centenary Committee and former Chief Minister Veerappa Moily, Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi, Urban Development Minister Bhairati Suresh, Kannada and Culture Minister Shivaraj Tangadgi, Health Minister Dinesh Gundurao, Chief Whip of the Government Ashok Pattan, Belagavi North MLA Asif Sait, Chikkodi-Sadalga MLA Ganesh Hukkeri, MLC Prakash Hukkeri, Director of the Kannada and Culture Department Dr Dharani Devi Malagatti, DC Mohammed Roshan, Zilla Panchayat CEO Rahul Shinde, Police Commissioner Iada Martin, Superintendent of Police Dr Bhimashankar Guled, Corporation Commissioner Shubha B, Joint Director K.H. Channur, and Deputy Director Vidyavati Bhajantri.

Role of Gangadhar Rao Deshpande in the freedom struggle

Gangadhar Rao Deshpande, hailing from Hudali village in Belagavi taluk, was a brave freedom fighter widely known as the ‘Lion of Karnataka.’ He played a pivotal role in organising the 1924 Congress session in Belagavi and persuaded Mahatma Gandhi to preside over the event. His diplomacy and capable leadership have been well recorded in Belagavi’s history.

At the time, Gangadhar Rao enjoyed a stature within the Congress Party comparable to Jawaharlal Nehru. Although he possessed the influence to secure a significant position in the Indian government post-independence, he chose a path of selflessness, dedicating his life to spirituality. He firmly believed that his struggle and service were confined to securing the nation’s freedom.

Born on 31 March 1871 to Balakrishna and Radhabai, a wealthy family in Hudali village of Belagavi taluk, Gangadhar Rao completed his secondary education at Sardar’s High School, Belagavi, before earning his BA LLB from Deccan College, Pune. He is survived by his wife Lakshmibai and son Balakrishna. Gangadhar Rao passed away on 30 July 1960.

In 1922, he established the Charak Sangha, followed by the Gandhi Seva Sangha in Hudali in 1937. The Khadi Village Industry, which he supported, continues to provide employment to hundreds of people. He also served as the Municipal President of Belagavi in 1920.

Initially, Gangadhar Rao was a follower of Gopalakrishna Gokhale and Bal Gangadhar Tilak. Later, he came into close contact with Mahatma Gandhi and was regarded as one of Gandhi’s five closest associates. A true Gandhian, Gangadhar Rao wore khadi clothes and lived a simple life despite his wealth.

Gangadhar Rao invited Mahatma Gandhi to his hometown Hudali, where Bapu stayed for seven days. A meeting of the Gandhi Seva Sangh was held, attended by prominent leaders including Dr Babu Rajendra Prasad, Abdul Ghaffar Khan, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Shaukat Ali, and Sarojini Naidu, as well as senior writers Betageri Krishna Sharma and G. Narayan.

Gangadhar Rao Deshpande had also advocated for Belagavi’s inclusion in Karnataka during the formation of linguistic provinces.

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)

Kannada Sahitya Sammelana displays ancient scripts, celebrates heritage

The interactive gateway also proved to be an invaluable tool for scholars and educators attending the event.

A school going boy with curiosity leaned closer to a monitor, trying to decipher an ancient Kannada script displayed on the screen. Beside him, his friends lined up eagerly pointed out the characters, guiding him through the process.

This scene, a mix of wonder and camaraderie, was one of many at the Akshara Bhandara platform that captivated visitors during the 87th Kannada Sahitya Sammelana in Mandya on Saturday.

The Sammelana witnessed a vibrant spectacle on the second day as curious individuals from all walks of life thronged the Akshara Bhandara stall in the exhibition area. The interactive exhibits captivated attendees with its display of ancient Kannada scripts on large monitors, sparking a sense of pride and wonder in Karnataka’s linguistic heritage.

The Akshara Bhandara platform, aptly named “Treasure of Letters,” transformed the academic study of ancient Kannada scripts into an engaging experience. Developed as the first-of-its-kind software, the platform bridges the gap between history and modernity, offering users access to over 30,000 ancient Kannada characters, revealed a stall manager. “We are sensitising people about our initiative which acts as a platform providing a treasure trove of historical metadata, shedding light on Karnataka’s dynasties, regions, and rulers as well,” he said.

The platform became a focal point of attention, drawing an unending stream of visitors eager to explore its features. Children, many of whom were experiencing the ancient script for the first time, gazed in awe at the intricate characters displayed on the monitors. Meanwhile, elders shared stories of Karnataka’s cultural past, weaving a poignant connection between the past and present.

The interactive gateway also proved to be an invaluable tool for scholars and educators attending the event. Researchers praised its extensive database for providing a comprehensive insight into Karnataka’s epigraphic legacy.

Meanwhile, the Book Mela organised as part of the Sammelana added to the literary charm of the event. Over 150 publication houses and publishers set up stalls, offering Kannada books spanning genres such as novels, short stories, poetry, and essays at discounted prices.

The stalls also featured shirts, keychains, and other merchandise adorned with Kannada words, fonts, and letters, which attracted both young and old visitors alike.

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)

Tulsi Gowda, the ‘Encyclopaedia of Forest’, passes away at 86

In his condolence message, PM Modi said Tulsi Gowda would remain a guiding light for environmental conservation.

Padma Shri awardee Tulsi Gowda, an environmentalist from Karnataka who is revered as the “tree goddess” by the Halakki tribal community, died from age-related ailments at her residence in Honnali village of Ankola taluk in Uttara Kannada district Monday evening. She was 86.

Condoling her death, PM Narendra Modi  said Tulsi Gowda will remain a guiding light for environmental conservation.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Tulsi Gowda Ji, a revered environmentalist from Karnataka and Padma Awardee. She dedicated her life to nurturing nature, planting thousands of saplings, and conserving our environment.”

“She will remain a guiding light for environmental conservation. Her work will continue to inspire generations to protect our planet. Condolences to her family and admirers. Om Shanti,” he said.

Known as the ‘encyclopedia of forest’, Gowda was born in Honnali village in Ankola taluk in Uttara Kannada district in 1944. But tragedy struck early. Gowda was only two years old when she lost her father. Raised in penury, she began working as a day labourer alongside her mother at a local forest nursery, forgoing any opportunity for formal education.

At the nursery, Gowda was entrusted with caring for seeds meant for the Agasur seedbed, a project of the Karnataka Forest Department. Overcoming the hurdle of lacking any formal education, Gowda became an autodidact, demonstrating extraordinary knowledge of forests, and particularly her ability to identify mother trees.

For 35 years, she worked as a daily wage worker at the nursery until her dedication and knowledge earned her a permanent position at the forest department, where for the next 15 years, she directly supported afforestation efforts, preventing poaching, and mitigating forest fires that threatened local wildlife.

Gowda has been credited with planting and nurturing over 1 lakh trees across Karnataka. Her contributions have strengthened one community reserve, five tiger reserves, 15 conservation reserves, and 30 wildlife sanctuaries, ensuring the preservation of diverse ecosystems.

In 2021, she was conferred the Padma Shri for her exceptional contributions to environmental conservation.

With PTI inputs

source/content: indianexpress.com (headline edited)

Vishwa Konkani Samaroh at World Konkani Centre on November 5

Vishwa Konkani Awards 2024 to be presented on November 6 at World Konkani Centre in Shakthinagar.

Konkani Language and Cultural Foundation, World Konkani Centre, Mangaluru, will organise Vishwa Konkani Samaroh – 2024 on Tuesday, November 5, and present Vishwa Konkani Awards – 2024 on Wednesday, November 6.

Dilip G. Naik, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, will inaugurate the programmes at World Konkani Centre in Shakthinagar at 9.30 a.m. on Tuesday. A portrait of well-known cine actor Pandari Bai will be unveiled on the occasion.

The literary sessions scheduled on Tuesday include ‘education in post Independence India with special reference to Konkani’, ‘humour in Konkani literature’ and ‘culture of reading Konkani’. The finals of All India Konkani Poetry Reciting Competition will also be held on Tuesday.

There will be folk performances, Kudubi and traditional Holi dances, in the evening.

This year’s late Vimala V. Pai Sahitya Puraskar will be presented to Fr. Mousinho De Ataide (for lifetime achievement) and Prakash D. Naik (for poetry work) on November 6. Late Basti Vaman Shenoy Seva Puraskar will be presented to Seva Bharati of Mangaluru in the field of education, healthcare, and social service and to Veena Adige of Mumbai in the field Socio-Cultural Community Service, a release said.

source/content: thehindu.com (headline edited)

KARNATAKA: HISTORICAL RECORDS: 13th-century stone inscription discovered in Davanagere district

A 13th-century stone inscription, or Veeragallu, has been uncovered in Davanagere district during the renovation of the ancient Kalleshwar temple.

A 13th-century stone inscription, or Veeragallu, has been uncovered in Elehole village, Harihara taluk, Davanagere district during the renovation of the ancient Kalleshwar temple, a site dating back to the Kalyana Chalukya period.

The stone inscription, which had remained buried for centuries, has revealed historical connections to the Sevuna dynasty and the heroism of local defenders, offering significant insights into the history of the region.

Dating back to 1283 AD, the stone is carved from charcoal stone, measuring 4 feet in length and 2.5 feet in width. It bears a five-line inscription referring to the Sevuna royal family, also known as the Devagiri Yadavas. The inscription honours Ramachandra Chakravarti, a prominent ruler of the Sevuna dynasty, who held the title Yadava Narayana Bhujbala Praudhapratapa Chakravarti. This discovery highlights the strong presence and influence of the Devagiri Yadavas in the region during the late 13th century.

K Ravi Kumar told HT: “The lower part of the stone depicts Bhoja Narayana and Vambhava in the heat of battle. One of the brothers is shown beheading an enemy, while another enemy lies defeated. On the left, carvings of cows represent the cattle they were defending.”

“The central section of the stone illustrates the brothers’ journey to Kailasa, the divine abode of Lord Shiva. In this part, two celestial nymphs lift a vimana (celestial chariot), with musicians following behind, celebrating the heroes’ valour. The artistic representation symbolizes the heroes’ ascent to divine realms, honouring their sacrifice,” he said.

He further said: “At the top of the stone, the scene shifts to Shivaloka, where the brothers are depicted in Anjalimudra (a pose of reverence), worshipping a Shivalinga. This final image suggests eternal peace and glory, with the sun and moon depicted in the background, symbolizing that the brothers’ fame would endure as long as these celestial bodies exist.”

On the historical context of the Sevuna dynasty, or Devagiri Yadavas, Kumar said: “The Sevunas were a Kannada-speaking dynasty with a kingdom that spanned parts of present-day Karnataka and Maharashtra. They initially served as vassals under the Kalyana Chalukyas before asserting their independence in the 12th century.”

He said that the hero stone specifically refers to Ramachandra Chakravarti, a significant ruler of the Sevuna dynasty, who reigned from 1271 to 1312 AD. “Ramachandra was known for his military victories and cultural patronage, and he played an important role in shaping the region’s history. His reign saw the construction of the Lakshmi Narayan temple near the Harihareshwar temple in Harihara, commemorating his triumphs.”

The archaeologist said that the newly discovered stone inscription has not only shed light on the political and cultural dynamics of the late 13th century but also underscored the importance of local heroes in the social fabric of ancient Karnataka. The Kalleshwar temple, where the inscription was found, continues to be a focal point for archaeological study.

source/content: hindustantimes.com (headline edited)

KARNATAKA: ARTS & CULTURE / FESTIVALS : DASARA 2024: Tableaux showcase vibrant Karnataka

This year’s grand Dasara concluded with a spectacular procession featuring 52 tableaux that celebrated the rich culture and traditions of our State.

For the first time, the number of tableaux exceeded 50, a significant increase compared to previous years, where it ranged from 28 to 35. This year, not only districts but also various Boards and Corporations participated with their tableaux.

Among the highlights of the procession was the tableau from Yadgir, showcasing the Thinthani Mouneshwara Temple, while Kodagu district highlighted the Harangi Reservoir, land conservation, coffee, pepper, and elephant camps.

Raichur district presented the Mudgal Fort, and the Chamarajanagar tableau captured attention by showcasing Soliga tribal culture. The Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) raised awareness for its ‘Ksheera Bhagya’ and ‘Ksheera Sanjeevini’ schemes, and Karnataka Soaps and Detergents displayed products highlighting Mysore Sandal Soap.

The newly formed Vijayanagara district transported spectators back to the glorious days of the Vijayanagara Empire.

The audience also enjoyed the Bengaluru Urban district’s portrayal of the iconic Vidhana Soudha as the ‘Power House,’ while Bidar highlighted Kannada Pattadevaru. Koppal showcased traditional Kinnala art, and the Tourism department’s tableau presented the State’s tourism spots under the title ‘Ondu Rajya Halavu Jagattu.’

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Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation Ltd. featured Lidkar products, Uttara Kannada district displayed the Murudeshwara Temple, and Bengaluru Rural showcased Ramadevara Betta and Heggunda.

Karnataka Silk Industries Limited (KSIL) presented various silk products under the theme ‘Karnataka Reshme Namma Hemme,’ while Davanagere district spread a message of humanity with its tableau themed ‘Naavu Manujaru.’

Udupi showcased its rich culture and coastal heritage, Shivamogga district highlighted the ‘Kaitabheshwara Temple’ located in Kotipura, Soraba taluk, and Ballari district presented the   Kurugodu Temple.

The Mysuru district administration’s tableau, themed ‘Manavakulada Samanathe,’ emphasised the significance of unity among humanity. Other noteworthy tableaux included Bagalkote district’s ‘Rannana Kavya Gadayudha,’   Haveri district’s ‘Elakki Kampinadu’ and ‘Santara-Sahitigala Nelebidu’, and Ramanagara district’s portrayal of diversity.

Kalaburagi district showcased its commitment to development, while Vijayapura district featured Basavana Bagevadi. Belagavi district highlighted the 200 years of the Kittur War, and Chitradurga district presented its famous Fort and windmills.

Additionally, Chikkaballapura district showcased the Nandi Ropeway, Hassan district highlighted Belur and Halebidu and Tumakuru district featured Siddarabetta. Beyond the districts, various departments also participated, including Rural Drinking Water and Sanitation, Health and Family Welfare, Information and Publicity, Police, Minority Welfare, and Skill Development, Entrepreneurship and Livelihood, all highlighting different Government schemes. Notably, the Health Department’s tableau raised awareness about female foeticide.

Institutions such as the Central Food Technological and Research Institute (CFTRI), All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH), and Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) also presented their contributions through tableaux. The Indian Railways tableau showcased the Vande Bharat Express, which has been popular since its launch.

source/content: starofmysore.com (headline edited)

KARNATAKA: 02nd October – Gandhi Jayanti: Badanavalu: Where Gandhjii’s legacy inspires a thriving khadi industry

The rhythmic hum of spinning wheels — Charaka — still reverberates through the air in Badanavalu, a village in Nanjangud Taluk, Mysuru District, that etched its place in history during India’s freedom struggle.

Sanctified by the footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi (whose 155th birth anniversary was celebrated yesterday), this humble village embraced his ideals and clung to its legacy of cottage industries, preserving them with pride to this day.

The soft, distant clatter of spinning wheels, tirelessly weaving Khadi threads, echoes through the fields. It was here, following Gandhi’s two iconic visits in 1927 and 1934, that hundreds of women found empowerment, shaping their lives around the art of weaving Khadi.

Gandhi first arrived in 1927, amidst his fight against the Simon Commission. His visit to the Mysore kingdom brought him face-to-face with freedom fighter Tagadur Ramachandra Rao.

Beacon of self-reliance

Upon witnessing the Khadi and Village Industries Centre, established by the Maharaja of Mysore in Badanavalu, Gandhi’s heart swelled with hope. His inspiration spurred the growth of more cottage industries, a movement that would transform the village into a beacon of self-reliance.

To commemorate Gandhi’s visit, a stone was laid at the very spot he set foot, with the inscription ‘Badanavalu Spinning Region.’ This simple act sowed the seeds for the formation of the Badanavalu Khadi Village Industries Cooperative Society.

A stone dating back to 1927, etched with the image of a spinning wheel, still stands as a symbol of his presence. Under local leadership, a bust of Gandhi and a pavilion were erected, with a plaque proudly noting its inauguration by the then Chief Minister, Veerendra Patil.

A hub of rural industry

In 1934, Gandhi returned to the Mysore region as part of his donation campaign for the ‘Harijan Sevak Sangh.’ Seizing the moment, he revisited Badanavalu to check on the progress of the spinning centre he had once inspired.

Following Gandhi’s initial visit, and with the enthusiastic backing of Maharaja of Mysore, Badanavalu blossomed into a hub of rural industry. Matchstick production, hand-made paper crafting, carpentry, blacksmithing, grain processing and making of puffed rice, beaten rice and fibre products were all successfully established.

Additionally, training for rural oil and fibre industries was introduced, creating a vibrant cottage economy that provided employment for around 500 villagers. Locals fondly recall Gandhi’s delight at witnessing the thriving industries during his second visit, a testament to the enduring spirit of self-reliance he had instilled.

Government support

At present, the Khadi industry is the only operational enterprise at Badanavalu, with the centre now under the management of the Khadi and Village Industries Society from Holenarasipura, Hassan district.

Supported by Government incentives, the workers spinning Khadi garments earn Rs. 35 per piece, with an additional Rs. 3 for each spool of thread and Rs. 7 per metre of fabric as bonus wages from the Khadi and Village Industries Board.

On average, women earn between Rs. 150 to Rs. 200 per day, utilising their spare time after household chores to engage in this craft.

Sabarmati Ashram model

The centre, sprawling across 5 acres, is seeing a renewed focus on development. A compound wall is under construction and the Karnataka State Tourism Department, through KRIDL (Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Limited), is building a structure modelled after the Sabarmati Ashram. The project is well underway.

Plans are also in motion to transform the park into a tribute to Gandhi’s legacy, with statues depicting his Dandi March and other figures emphasising village self-governance and self-reliance.

Meanwhile, the building erected in 1950 on the very spot where Gandhi addressed the villagers in 1927 has fallen into disrepair. Plans are underway to restore this historical structure, preserving it as a monument for future generations to remember and honour Gandhi’s profound connection with the village.

Badanavalu village, nestled in Nanjangud taluk of Mysuru district, is strategically situated along the route from Nanjangud to Chamarajanagar, boasting robust road connectivity.

Earlier Narasambudhi

Notably, railway records refer to this village as Narasambudhi. According to the 2011 census, Badanavalu is home to 632 families, with a population totalling 2,784. While it once drew attention due to caste conflicts, today the village thrives in a spirit of communal harmony.

In his 2024-25 State Budget speech, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, a native of the Mysuru district, unveiled plans to enhance Khadi activities in Badanavalu — an area historically significant for its connection to Mahatma Gandhi.

He also proposed the development of the village as a National Memorial and a dedicated Development Committee has already been established to oversee this initiative.

The Badanavalu centre has attracted numerous dignitaries, including activist Medha Patkar political leaders, Ministers, elected representatives, and a host of film actors, all drawn by the village’s rich heritage and ongoing development.

The original Kannada report, written by D. Ashok Kumar, Deputy Director, Department of Information and Public Relations, Mysuru, was sent to Star of Mysore to be published on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti (Oct. 2).

source/content: starofmysore.com (headline edited)

NATIONAL: KARNATAKA: PROJECT DIGITISATION: Close to 12,000 books digitised in Bengaluru for All India Gandhi Library project

The collection, assembled over three months and spanning 12 languages, includes Mahatma Gandhi’s collected works, publications such as Harijan and Young India and audio recordings.

The Servants of Knowledge, a non-profit group, has announced that 11,720 books from the library of Bengaluru’s Gandhi Bhavan have been digitised as part of the All India Gandhi Library project.

The group announced this at the valedictory session of a seminar held on Sunday to mark the 75th year of the Gandhi Smaraka Nidhi Organisation.

According to a statement by the non-profit group, Gandhi Bhavan had already made 1,272 books publicly available online. The freshly digitised collection, assembled over three months and spanning 12 languages, includes the collected works of Mahatma Gandhi, his publications such as Harijan and Young India and audio recordings of him speaking on All India Radio.

The digitised libraries have been presented to 12 Gandhian organisations.

Among the speakers at the seminar was American public domain information advocate Carl Malamud, who is also part of Servants of Knowledge and the founder of the US-based Public.Resource.Org.

“For the last several months, we have been digitising every book here at the Karnataka Gandhi Smaraka Nidhi libraries. Today we are presenting all of those books in digital format to the organisations here, making them the trustees of this knowledge….this is the first release of the All India Gandhi Library. We have offered to digitise at no cost additional Gandhi materials these organisations may possess to add to the collection. We have already assisted the Gandhi Smaraka Nidhis of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh  and we welcome additional materials…..as we say ‘scanning is the new spinning’,” he said at the seminar.

Explaining the digitisation process, Malamud told indianexpress.com later, “We make the scanners and frames here in India and have 17 scanners here at Gandhi Bhavan and can scan 15 lakh pages every month… Once you get good at it, you can do 500 pages in an hour. After the scan, a post-process happens where you crop the pages, de-skew it, run optical character recognition and create a PDF file—a whole chain of processes.”

Explaining the challenges of working with old books in general, Malamud added, “If the material is truly fragile, we work with INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage) and they help us conserve the books. The same goes with fragile palm leaves. We’re careful while turning the pages with older books, but if the book is going to disintegrate we have it go through the conservation process.”

About some other work done by the Servants of Knowledge, Malamud said, “Om Shivaprakash (another archivist with the Servants of Knowledge) has been instrumental in finding old Kannada books and gotten permission to digitise old Kannada magazines from publishers…. We’re also working on Lalbagh right now and digitising their library of 6,000 books and digitising old and rare prints. There are all sorts of materials that are on the internet for the first time and that is something we’re particularly proud of.”

source/content: indianexpress.com (headline edited)