M.P. Srinath, president of the Dakshina Kannada Sahitya Parishat, has stated that it was the final wish of Kayyara Kinhanna Rai for Kasaragod to become a part of Karnataka.
He was speaking at the book release event for the collection of selected stories and poems from writers of Udupi, Dakshina Kannada and Kasaragod districts, titled “Aikyaave Mantra – A Tribute to Kavi Kayyara”, held at BEM High School Auditorium on Saturday. The event was organized in collaboration with Art Canara Trust Mangalore, Kavita Kuteera (Reg.), Perdala, and alumni of Navajeevan High School, Perdala, Kasaragod.
Ajit Kumar Rai Maladi, President of Bantara Yane Nadavara Mathr Sangha, who released the book, spoke highly of Kayyara Kinhanna Rai, calling him not only a towering figure in the literary world but also someone who had earned immense respect in Kannada and Tulu literary circles.
Introducing the book, Govinda Dasa College Principal Krishnamurthy remarked that Kayyara Kinhanna Rai had spread the message of unity through his works. As a journalist and founder of Navajeevan High School, he believed that poets earn respect not through memorials built for them but through the books created in their honor. He added that “Aikyaave Mantra” is a tribute to Kayyara, containing 99 poems and 11 stories, and is a valuable collection of works by both senior and junior writers.
The event was graced by Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy President Taranath Gatti, Durga Prasad Rai, Dr. Saigeeta Hegde, Kayyara’s disciples Francis D’Souza, Radhakrishna Uliyatadka, BEM School Administrator Manoj, Headmaster Yashwanth Mad and trustees of Art Canara Trust Subhash Chandra Basu and Rajendra Kedige. Prasanna Rai, President of Kavita Kuteera welcomed the gathering.
