Friday, March 15, 2019
Biography of Masti Venkatesha Iyengar:
Masti Venkatesha Iyengar, popularly known as Masti, was a renowned Indian writer, playwright, and essayist in the Kannada language. He was born on June 6, 1891, in Kolar, Karnataka, India, and passed away on June 6, 1986. Masti Venkatesha Iyengar is considered one of the stalwarts of Kannada literature and has made significant contributions to the literary and cultural heritage of Karnataka.
Early Life and Education:
Masti Venkatesha Iyengar was born into a traditional Kannada Brahmin family. He showed a keen interest in literature and languages from an early age. He pursued his education in Bangalore and later graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Literary Career:
Masti's literary career began in the early 20th century. He was a prolific writer and contributed extensively to Kannada literature. He authored numerous novels, short stories, essays, and plays. His writing style was characterized by wit, humor, and social consciousness. He often depicted the lives of ordinary people, addressing social issues, and advocating for societal reforms through his works.
M.V. Iyengar's Notable Works:
Masti Venkatesha Iyengar's notable works include novels like "Channabasava Nayaka" and "Drohada Sose." He also wrote plays such as "Sanyasi Samsaya," highlighting the conflict between tradition and modernity. His literary output earned him several awards and accolades.
Contributions to Kannada Literature:
Masti was a key figure in the Navya movement, a literary movement in Kannada literature that sought to bring modernism and experimental styles to the traditional literary landscape. He played a crucial role in shaping the literary identity of Karnataka and inspired many writers and intellectuals.
Awards and Recognition to Masti Venkatesha Iyengar:
Masti Venkatesha Iyengar received numerous awards, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, the Padma Bhushan, and the Jnanpith Award, one of the highest literary honors in India. His contributions to Kannada literature were widely celebrated, and he remains an iconic figure in the literary history of Karnataka.
Writing of Masti Venkatesha Iyengar:
• Chakveera Rajendra - 11 editions published in 3 editions between 1956 and 2009 and organized by 52 WorldCat member libraries around the world.• Kalidas - 3 editions published between 1978 and 1980 in English and Kannada and organized by 37 WorldCat member libraries around the world
• essays, addresses, etc. - 2 editions published in English in 1975 and organized by 34 WorldCat member libraries around the world
• Rajaji: A study of his personality - 6 editions published in English and uncertain between 1975 and 1984 and organized by 34 WorldCat member libraries around the world.
• Most of the language sciences in India-Teerth-Kannada conducted between 1952 and 1966 published 5 editions and 20 WorldCat member libraries around the world
• Severe appreciation of Mahabharata, Hindu epic, popular culture in Karnataka - 4 editions published in English in 1937 and organized by 19 WorldCat member libraries around the world
• Organized by folklore bio-edits in Karnataka, India - 3 editions published in Kannada in 1967 and 19 WorldCat member libraries around the world.
• Subbanna - 15 editions published in 7 editions between 1943 and 2006 and organized by 19 WorldCat member libraries around the world.
Legacy:
Masti Venkatesha Iyengar's legacy continues to inspire writers, readers, and scholars in Karnataka. His works are studied in literature courses, and his impact on Kannada literature remains profound. He is remembered not only for his literary achievements but also for his social awareness and contributions to the cultural fabric of Karnataka.