Famous Kannada Poets

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Famous Kannada Poets

• Exploring the Rich Literary Heritage

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Introduction to Kannada Literature

• Kannada literature, originating from the state of
  Karnataka in South India, has a rich historical
  and cultural significance. It spans over a
  millennium, with its roots tracing back to
  ancient times. The development of Kannada
  literature can be broadly categorized into
  various phases
• Ancient Period (450-1200 CE) The earliest known
  work in Kannada literature is the Kavirajamarga,
  written by the Rashtrakuta king Amoghavarsha I in
  the 9th century. This literary treatise provides
  guidelines for poets and reflects the cultural
  and linguistic aspects of the time.
• Medieval Period (1200-1800 CE) This era saw the
  flourishing of poetic compositions, particularly
  in the form of 'Vachana Sahitya' or devotional
  literature. The famous saints like Basavanna and
  Akka Mahadevi contributed significantly to this
  genre, emphasizing the importance of devotion and
  rejecting caste-based discrimination.

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• Vijayanagara Period (14th-17th centuries) The
  Vijayanagara Empire played a pivotal role in the
  cultural development of Karnataka. Notable
  literary figures during this period include
  Kumara Vyasa, who wrote the famous epic,
  "Karnataka Kavya," based on the Mahabharata.
• Navya (Modern) Period (1800-present) The 19th
  century witnessed the influence of British rule,
  leading to the establishment of printing presses
  and the emergence of modern Kannada literature.
  The works of poets like B.M. Srikantaiah and D.R.
  Bendre marked the beginning of the modern Kannada
  literary movement, known as the Navya (new)
  movement.
• Contemporary Period (20th century-present) The
  20th century saw the rise of prominent writers
  like Kuvempu, U.R. Ananthamurthy, and Girish
  Karnad. Kuvempu's "Ramayana Darshanam" and
  Ananthamurthy's "Samskara" are celebrated works
  that have gained international recognition.
• Kannada literature reflects the cultural
  diversity, linguistic richness, and historical
  evolution of Karnataka. It has contributed
  significantly to the promotion of regional
  identity, social reform, and the preservation of
  indigenous traditions. The works of Kannada poets
  and writers continue to be celebrated, forming an
  integral part of India's literary heritage.

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Pampa (902975 CE)

• Pampa, also known as Adikavi Pampa, was a
  renowned Kannada poet and one of the earliest and
  most celebrated writers in Kannada literature. He
  lived during the 10th century CE, in the court of
  the Western Chalukya king Arikesari II. Pampa's
  contributions to Kannada literature are highly
  significant, earning him the title "Adikavi,"
  meaning the first poet.
• Life and Background Pampa was born in the town
  of Annigeri in present-day Karnataka. Not much is
  known about his early life, but historical
  records suggest that he lived during the latter
  half of the 10th century. Pampa gained patronage
  in the court of King Arikesari II, and his
  association with the Chalukya rulers played a
  crucial role in the development of his literary
  career.
• Contribution to Kannada Literature Pampa is best
  known for his two major works, both of which are
  classic pieces of Kannada literature

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• 'Vikramarjuna Vijaya' (Pampa Bharata) This is
  Pampa's adaptation of the Hindu epic Mahabharata.
  Also known as "Pampa Bharata," the poem focuses
  on the character Arjuna and narrates his exploits
  in the context of the Mahabharata war. Pampa's
  rendition of the epic is praised for its poetic
  excellence, linguistic richness, and cultural
  significance. 'Vikramarjuna Vijaya' is considered
  a masterpiece in Kannada literature and is one of
  the earliest instances of a complete Mahabharata
  in any Indian language.
• 'Adipurana' This epic poem narrates the life of
  the first Tirthankara of Jainism, Adinatha (also
  known as Rishabhanatha). 'Adipurana' is one of
  the earliest extant works in Kannada and is
  highly regarded for its literary and
  philosophical qualities. Pampa's portrayal of the
  life of Adinatha is not just a religious text but
  a work of art that reflects the cultural and
  literary excellence of its time.
• Pampa's contributions go beyond the content of
  his works he played a crucial role in
  establishing Kannada as a classical language. His
  poetic style, characterized by grace, simplicity,
  and eloquence, set the tone for later Kannada
  poets and writers. Pampa's legacy endures, and he
  is venerated as a literary icon in Karnataka,
  with his works continuing to be studied and
  celebrated for their cultural and historical
  significance.

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Ranna (9491015 CE)

• Ranna, also known as Adikavi Ranna, was a
  prominent Kannada poet and a major literary
  figure in the early 10th century. He was a
  contemporary of another renowned Kannada poet,
  Pampa. Ranna's contributions to Kannada
  literature are significant, and he is considered
  one of the "Three Gems of Kannada Literature"
  along with Pampa and Ponna.
• Life and Background Ranna lived during the reign
  of the Western Chalukya king Krishna III, in the
  10th century CE. His exact birth and death dates
  are not well-documented, but historical records
  suggest that he was born in Mulugunda, near
  Gadag, in present-day Karnataka. Ranna was a
  Brahmin by birth and held a high position in the
  court of King Krishna III, which provided him
  with the patronage needed to focus on his
  literary pursuits.
• Literary Achievements Ranna is known for his
  poetic excellence and versatility. His literary
  works encompass various genres, including epics,
  puranas, and lyrical poetry. One of his notable
  works is the epic poem titled

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• 'Ajitha Purana' This is Ranna's magnum opus and
  a significant contribution to Kannada literature.
  'Ajitha Purana' is a Jain purana that narrates
  the life and teachings of Lord Adinatha, the
  first Tirthankara of Jainism. The poem is known
  for its rich linguistic style, poetic elegance,
  and philosophical depth. Ranna's portrayal of the
  characters and events in 'Ajitha Purana' reflects
  his mastery of storytelling and his ability to
  blend religious and literary elements seamlessly.
• Ranna's poetic style is characterized by its
  simplicity, grace, and lyrical quality. His
  works, including 'Ajitha Purana,' played a
  crucial role in the development of Kannada as a
  classical language. Ranna's literary
  contributions are considered a bridge between the
  early classical phase represented by Pampa and
  the later literary developments in the Kannada
  language.
• Despite facing challenges and invasions during
  his time, Ranna's legacy endures, and he is
  remembered as one of the pioneers who helped
  shape the rich tradition of Kannada literature.
  His influence extends to subsequent generations
  of poets and writers in Karnataka, and 'Ajitha
  Purana' remains a celebrated work that
  contributes to the cultural and literary heritage
  of the region.

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Janna (13th Century)

• Janna, also known as Janna Pampa, was a prominent
  Kannada poet who lived during the later part of
  the 13th century. He hailed from the Hoysala
  dynasty, which ruled over parts of present-day
  Karnataka in South India. Janna is celebrated for
  his significant contributions to Kannada
  literature, particularly in the form of his
  poetic compositions.
• Life and Background Janna's exact dates of birth
  and death are not precisely known, but he is
  believed to have lived during the 13th century
  CE. He was associated with the Hoysala court,
  known for its patronage of arts and literature.
  Janna's poetic talents gained recognition, and he
  became a revered figure in the cultural and
  literary circles of his time.
• Poetic Legacy Janna's literary contributions
  primarily fall into the genre of "Shabda Kavya,"
  which is poetry characterized by a focus on
  language, sound, and rhythm. He is considered one
  of the "Navaratnas" (Nine Gems) in the Hoysala
  court, a group of nine poets renowned for their
  literary prowess.
• Janna's most notable work is

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• 'Yashodhara Charite' This is a poetic
  composition that narrates the story of
  Yashodhara, the wife of Prince Siddhartha (who
  later became Gautama Buddha). The poem explores
  the emotional and psychological aspects of
  Yashodhara's life, her struggles, and her
  eventual spiritual journey. 'Yashodhara Charite'
  is admired for its poignant portrayal of human
  emotions, its lyrical quality, and its
  exploration of the theme of renunciation and
  detachment.
• Janna's poetry is known for its intricate use of
  language, metaphors, and a deep understanding of
  human psychology. His works often reflect the
  cultural and philosophical milieu of his time,
  with a focus on ethical and moral themes. Janna's
  contribution to Kannada literature adds a layer
  of emotional depth and introspection, and his
  legacy has endured through the centuries.
• While Janna's works may not have received as much
  attention as those of earlier poets like Pampa,
  his unique voice and poetic sensibilities have
  left an indelible mark on Kannada literature.
  'Yashodhara Charite' remains a celebrated piece
  of literature, contributing to the rich tapestry
  of Kannada poetic heritage.

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Sarvajna (16th Century)

• Sarvajna, also known as Sarvagna or Sarvagna
  Peethadhishwara, was a celebrated poet,
  philosopher, and saint who significantly
  contributed to Kannada literature. He lived in
  the 16th century during the Bhakti movement, a
  socio-religious reform movement that emphasized
  devotion and a personal relationship with the
  divine. Sarvajna's vachanas (profound sayings)
  are renowned for their wisdom, simplicity, and
  social relevance.
• Life and Background The details of Sarvajna's
  life are not well-documented, and historical
  information about him is often shrouded in
  legend. He is believed to have been born in
  present-day Karnataka, and his compositions
  indicate that he was well-versed in the
  socio-religious and cultural landscape of his
  time. Sarvajna's verses are often considered
  timeless, reflecting universal truths and the
  complexities of human existence.
• Impact on Kannada Literature Sarvajna's vachanas
  form an integral part of the Bhakti literary
  tradition in Kannada. His poetry is characterized
  by its straightforward language, social critique,
  and spiritual insights. While earlier literary
  figures like Basava and Akka Mahadevi contributed
  to the Vachana Sahitya (devotional literature)
  movement, Sarvajna added a distinctive voice with
  his emphasis on practical wisdom and everyday
  life.
• Famous Vachanas Sarvajna's vachanas cover a wide
  range of themes, including morality, ethics,
  social justice, and spirituality. Here are a few
  of his famous vachanas

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• Mahadevi contributed to the Vachana Sahitya
  (devotional literature) movement, Sarvajna added
  a distinctive voice with his emphasis on
  practical wisdom and everyday life.
• Famous Vachanas Sarvajna's vachanas cover a wide
  range of themes, including morality, ethics,
  social justice, and spirituality. Here are a few
  of his famous vachanas
• "???? ????? ???, ????? ??????? ???" (Kole beeradu
  nija, holade beeruvadu nija) This vachana
  reflects the idea that what is seen on the
  surface may not always be true, and true worth or
  character is often revealed through actions and
  deeds.
• "?????? ?????? ???????????, ?????? ???
  ???????????" (Avanalla hennu huttalebeku,
  avalalla magu huttalebeku) This vachana
  challenges the traditional notion that only a
  male child is necessary for a family's
  well-being, emphasizing the equal importance of a
  daughter.
• "????????? ?????? ????, ??????????? ?????? ????"
  (Yogiyaagalu hengasu beku, viraktanagalu hendati
  beku) In this vachana, Sarvajna suggests that a
  woman is needed to become a yogi, emphasizing the
  importance of the marital relationship in
  spiritual pursuits.
• These vachanas reflect Sarvajna's keen
  observations on human nature, societal norms, and
  the pursuit of a meaningful life. His verses have
  resonated with people across generations and
  continue to be celebrated for their profound
  wisdom and societal relevance. Sarvajna's impact
  on Kannada literature extends beyond his era,
  influencing subsequent generations of poets and
  thinkers.

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THANK YOU

• PRESENTED BY
• Salagalla Chetan