Veteran Tulu-Kannada writer and freedom activist Lalitha Rai passes away at 98

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Oct 14, 2025: Renowned writer and freedom movement participant Lalitha Rai passed away at her residence in Mangaluru on October 11 at the age of 98. Recognized as one of the earliest women writers from pre-independence Dakshina Kannada, Rai was a prominent literary and social figure in the region.

A trailblazer in education, Lalitha Rai was among the first batch of students at Mangaluru’s Besant High School and later pursued her graduation from St. Agnes College. She completed her teacher training at St. Ann’s B.Ed College and began her teaching career at Canara High School.

Apart from her contributions to education, Rai played a pivotal role in the women’s empowerment movement. She was a founding member of several organisations, including Mahila Sabha, Bhagini Samaj, and the Theosophical Society in Mangaluru. She was actively involved in various women’s rights campaigns and served as a committed member of the Karavali Lekhakiyara Mattu Vachakiyara Sangha (Coastal Women Writers and Readers Association).

Lalitha Rai began writing stories and articles in newspapers even before India gained independence. Her notable literary works include the translated work “Chittagongna Krantiveeraru” (Revolutionaries of Chittagong), and original works such as “Matte Belagitu Sodaru” (short stories), “Internetnolge Mattu Itara Kathegalu” (short stories), “Grahana Kaleyitu” (Kannada novel), “Desantara”, and “Bonte Dernd” (a Tulu novel).

Her contributions to literature and society earned her several accolades, including the S.U. Paniyadi Award, Karnataka Lekhakiyara Sangha Award, Rani Abbakka Award, Sandesha Pratishthana Award, Tulu Sahitya Academy Annual Award, Karnataka Government’s Suvarna Rajyotsava Award, among many others from local cultural bodies.

Final Rites:
According to family sources, the funeral will be held on Wednesday at 10:00 AM at her residence, “Lalitha Residency Vishwas,” located on Kodialbail Guttu West Road, Mangaluru.

Condolences:
Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy President Shri Taranath Gatti Kapikad expressed deep sorrow over her passing and paid tribute to her life and work.