Last rites of popular novelist SL Bhyrappa conducted in Mysuru will full state honours

MYSURU: The last rites of renowned Kannada novelist and philosopher S L Bhyrappa were conducted on Friday at the crematorium at the foot of the Chamundi Hills with full state honours. Central and state ministers, among other dignitaries, paid their last respects.

Earlier, the mortal remains of Bhyrappa were taken to his residence in Kuvempunagar where religious rituals were performed. Bhyrappa’s family, including his adopted daughter Sahana Vijayakumar, friends and admirers had gathered at his residence to pay their final respects.

Dr Lakshminarayan, who treated Bhyrappa, remembered him as a passionate literature lover who always discussed books and ideas. As the last rites were conducted, chants ‘Bhyrappa Amar Rahe’ (May Bhyrappa live forever) rent the air.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, who spoke to media persons after the cremation, said, “The late renowned author was known for his meticulous research before writing novels. His works were translated into various languages and had multiple reprints, reflecting their popularity. Even in Maharashtra, several newspapers wrote articles about him, showcasing his impact beyond Karnataka. Despite receiving the Padma Bhushan, he remained humble and focused on his work”

“Once a person attains name and fame, Goddess Lakshmi will follow Goddess Saraswathi, but Bhyrappa never sought anything. I am paying respects on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the central government. Bhyrappa’s literary legacy will continue to inspire and influence readers across the country”, Joshi added.

State ministers H C Mahadevappa and K Venkatesh, former MP Pratap Simha were among those who were present.