Kannada literature mourns the loss of one of its prominent figures, Kamala Hampana, who passed away on June 22 at her residence in Rajajinagar due to age-related causes. As per her wishes, her body will be donated to M.S. Ramaiah Hospital for medical research, a testament to her enduring commitment to contributing to the betterment of society even beyond her lifetime.
Source: The Hindu
Born in Devanahalli on October 28, 1935, Kamala Hampana was not only a prolific writer but also an academician, researcher, and teacher. Her illustrious career spanned 60 years, during which she made significant contributions to the world of literature and academia. Her literary oeuvre includes over 60 books in Kannada, encompassing various genres, and two books in English, namely Attimabbe and Chalukyas and Jainism and Other Essays. Her literary prowess shone through her diverse and rich body of work, which continues to be celebrated by literary enthusiasts. She was actively involved in the Dalit movement and women’s movement in Karnataka, infusing her writing with socio-cultural relevance.
Sharmila by Kamala Hampana
In addition to her literary achievements, Kamala Hampana also delved into scholarly pursuits, producing nine research documents, including the notable works Thuranga Bharata – Ondu Addhyayana and Adharsha Jaina Mahileyaru. Her research endeavors enriched the academic landscape and added depth to her multifaceted legacy. These contributions shed light on the unique tradition of composing in both “laukika” and “agamika” genres, a dichotomy that has dominated Kannada literature for over four centuries. She explored the convention for poets of Jain heritage to compose in both genres, showcasing her deep understanding of the literary traditions.
She was honored with prestigious accolades for her remarkable contributions, like the Dana Chintamani Attimabbe Award and Nadoja Award.
The news of Kamala Hampana’s passing has deeply impacted the literary and political spheres. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his condolences, acknowledging her literary prowess, her dedication to research and teaching, and the positive impact she had on the lives of many.
Kamala Hampana leaves behind a rich literary legacy that will continue to inspire and captivate generations to come. Her indelible contributions to Kannada literature and academia will forever be cherished, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those who admired and revered her.
