Young Publishers Revive Kannada Literature Empower Emerging Writers

Young publishers are revitalizing Kannada literature, empowering emerging writers, and connecting readers through social media, expos, and cost-effective books.

on Dec 23, 2024

In a bid to enhance Kannada readership and support emerging authors, a group of first-generation publishers is redefining the literary landscape. These individuals, mostly in their 30s, come from non-publishing backgrounds and are driven by a passion for promoting literature. Using social media platforms and book expos, they connect lesser-known authors with readers, especially among the youth, in the digital age.

The Vision and Mission

The initiative prioritizes building Kannada readership rather than pursuing profits. Chand Pasha, a Ph.D. scholar at Bangalore University, leads the effort with his publishing house, Kavyamane Prakashana. “We aim to act as a bridge between authors and readers,” says Pasha. At the 87th Kannada Sahitya Sammelana in Mandya, his team offered books at a 40% discount, recovering only printing costs.

Promoting Budding Talent

Kavyamane Prakashana was founded to publish the works of talented writers overlooked by mainstream publishers. Pasha’s poetry collection, Oddegannina Deepa, won acclaim in 2023, inspiring him to assist other authors. Collaborators like Kapila P. Humanabade, a Bengaluru-based lecturer, and Mudiraj Banad, a postal department employee, share this vision. Their efforts have led to multiple reprints of Kapila’s books, Banavi and Hanaadi, which received enthusiastic responses from readers.

Direct-to-Reader Approach

The team prefers selling directly to readers instead of relying on traditional distribution channels. “I want to bring books straight to the people at cost price,” says Banad, who actively participates in book expos. This approach ensures budding writers’ works reach a wider audience without profit-driven motives.

Support from Literary Circles

Mahantesh Patil, an assistant professor at Davangere University and author of Odeda Bannada Chitragalu and Chalisuva Godegalu, applauds these efforts. He believes encouraging young publishers and writers is vital for Kannada literature’s growth.

A Shared Belief

Chand Pasha and Banad emphasize that the challenge lies not in finding readers but in reaching them effectively. By leveraging social media and book fairs, they ensure Kannada literature remains vibrant, fostering a new generation of readers and writers.