Mangaluru: Acclaimed Kannada writer and novelist Vaidehi was conferred the Karanth Award 2026, instituted by Kalkura Prathishtana, at a ceremony held at Pattumudi Soudha here on Saturday. The event brought together prominent literary figures, academicians and representatives of various cultural organisations to celebrate her contribution to Kannada literature.Welcoming the gathering, S Pradeep Kumar Kalkura expressed pride in honouring the veteran writer and acknowledged her literary achievements.Former Kannada University VC prof BA Vivek Rai spoke about Vaidehi’s personality and the close connection between her life and literary works. “Vaidehi represents a beautiful blend of simplicity, sensitivity, and profound gentleness. Seeing her receive this award brings me immense personal joy, as her life and literature are deeply interconnected,” he said.Mangalore University VC prof PL Dharma highlighted the influence of senior writers on the region’s intellectual and cultural landscape. “Writers like Vaidehi have profoundly influenced our cultural and educational spheres. Her works offer immense knowledge, and we must continue to learn from the guidance provided by such senior literary figures who are always ready to guide us,” he said.Accepting the award, Vaidehi spoke with characteristic humility about the attention and appreciation she had received in recent times. “Recently, I have received much excessive praise, with fans attributing expertise to me in various arts like dance and music. While I possess a deep interest in learning them, I’m well aware of my own limitations and consider myself a perpetual learner, not an expert,” she said.The ceremony was attended by Karavali Lekhakiyara Sangha president Shakuntala T Shetty, former Kannada Sahitya Parishat state president Dr Harikrishna Punaroor and Sharada Group of Institutions president MB Puranik.Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy president Tharanath Kapikad, Karnataka Arebhashe Culture and Literature Academy president Sadananda Mavaji, Karnataka Beary Sahitya Academy president Umar UH, senior writer H Shantharaj Aithal, Tulu Okkoota president AC Bhandari and Dakshina Kannada District Kannada Sahitya Parishat president MP Srinath were present.
