INTACH, Gili Vindu and Mangalore University mark Govinda Pai birth anniversary with memorial lecture

INTACH, Gili Vindu and Mangalore University mark Govinda Pai birth anniversary with memorial lecture

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, March 23, 2026: The Mangaluru Chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), in association with Gili Vindu (R) of the SVP Institute of Kannada Studies, Mangalore University, and Art Kanara Trust, organised a memorial lecture to commemorate Rashtrakavi Govinda Pai on Monday at the Kodialguthu Centre for Art and Culture in Ballalbagh. The programme coincided with the birth anniversary of the noted poet, scholar and playwright.

Govinda Pai (1883–1963), regarded as Kannada’s first “Rashtrakavi” (1949), was a distinguished literary figure known for works such as Vaishakhi, Golgotha, Gili Vindu and Nandadeepa. A polyglot proficient in about 22 languages, his contributions continue to hold lasting relevance in Karnataka’s cultural and intellectual spheres.

Introducing the theme, Prof. P. Krishnamoorthy, former Principal of Govinda Dasa College, Surathkal, highlighted the need to remember eminent literary figures from the region. He said such programmes help preserve and promote the legacy of personalities like Rashtrakavi Govinda Pai.

The memorial lecture was delivered by Prof. B. Shivarama Shetty, former professor at the SVP Institute of Kannada Studies and founder of Gili Vindu (R). He described Govinda Pai as a multilingual scholar deeply engaged with social realities, noting that his writings addressed themes of religion, harmony, pluralism and peace. He added that Govinda Pai’s works reflect on the lives and final moments of figures such as Jesus, Krishna, Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi, making them relevant in today’s conflict-ridden world.

An interactive session followed, focusing on Govinda Pai’s early life, literary style and the need to include more of his works in school curricula. The discussion was led by Fr. William D’Silva, Dr. Satya Narayana Mallipattana, Dr. Rajaram Tolpadi and artist-filmmaker Madhusudan Kumar.

Dr. R. Narasimha Murthy and Dr. Vasudeva Belli, secretaries of Gili Vindu (R), and senior researcher Dr. Indira Heggade were also present. Dr. Prasanna Rai recited poems of Govinda Pai and Kayyar Kinhanna Rai during the programme.

Nemiraj Shetty, Co-Convener of INTACH Mangaluru Chapter, welcomed the gathering, while Rajendra Kedige, Executive Member of INTACH, proposed the vote of thanks.