Mangaluru Mitra Mandali 2.0 to be launched on July 18

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, July 16, 2026: The historic Mangaluru Mitra Mandali, a literary forum founded in 1928 to promote Kannada literature and nationalist thought, will be revived as Mangaluru Mitra Mandali 2.0 on July 18.

The initiative has been undertaken by the Canara High School Association through its Canara Cultural Academy with the aim of restoring the historic literary platform and encouraging a new generation of Kannada writers and literature enthusiasts.

Mangaluru Mitra Mandali traces its origins to the 1920s, when eminent Kannada scholars and writers gathered at Canara High School in Mangaluru to discuss literature and promote nationalist ideals through the Kannada language during India’s freedom movement. The forum later evolved into a prominent platform for literary creation and the promotion of Kannada literature in Coastal Karnataka.

Over the years, the Mandali was shaped by several renowned literary figures, including Panje Mangesh Rao, M.N. Kamath, Manjeshwar Govinda Pai, Jodumath Vamana Bhat, Pejavara Sadashiva Rao, Sediyapu Krishna Bhat, Kadengodlu Shankar Bhat, Muliya Thimmappayya, Kayyara Kinhanna Rai, K. Suryanarayana Adiga, Kanandoor Raghavachar, Kanandoor Thimmayachar, Ammembala Narayana Pai, K.K. Rai, Baburao Prabhu, S.P. Bhat, and A. Narayana Pai.

The relaunched forum will provide a platform for emerging writers, support literary initiatives, and promote Kannada literary activities, according to a release.

The inaugural programme will be held at 5 pm on July 18 at Sri Sudhindra Sabhabhavana, Dongerkery, Mangaluru. Renowned writer Chandrakala Nandavar will inaugurate the event and deliver the keynote address, the release added.