Mangaluru, January 11, 2025: The 7th edition of the Mangaluru Literature Festival was inaugurated with grandeur at the T.M.A. Pai Auditorium on Saturday. The ceremony brought together literary stalwarts and intellectuals, marking the beginning of a two-day celebration of ideas and culture.
Renowned author S.L. Bhyrappa and Dr. Ravi, Secretary of the Mythic Society, presided as chief guests. Sunil Kulkarni, Trustee of the Bharat Foundation Trust, opened the event with a warm welcome speech. The festival officially began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the illumination of knowledge and wisdom.
The event included a heartfelt tribute to the late Norbert D’Souza, honoring his remarkable contributions to Kannada literature.
S.L. Bhyrappa, reflecting on his association with the festival since its inception in 2017, praised the Dakshina Kannada district for its leadership in education and other fields. He lauded the organizers for creating a platform that brings together achievers from diverse backgrounds for meaningful discussions.
Bhyrappa also raised thought-provoking questions, urging the audience to consider whether the topics addressed during the festival are reaching the right audience and creating the desired impact. “Self-confidence is crucial to providing convincing answers to these questions,” he noted. He commended the festival’s ability to remain fresh and impactful year after year, avoiding monotony.
Dr. Ravi, in his address, highlighted the distinctiveness of the Mangaluru Literature Festival, which he described as unparalleled among literary gatherings in the country. He emphasized that the discussions held at the festival could leave a lasting influence on future generations, underscoring its importance in shaping societal discourse.
The festival promises a rich lineup of sessions and discussions, featuring thought leaders from across the nation, making it a significant cultural event in the region.