Five writers who used to put down their thoughts on their respective blogs were planning to come out with a book containing their write-ups. Vijaya Prasanna, at the same time, was thinking of starting an organisation that would contribute towards Kannada literature and Indian music. Matching interests in these thoughts and some excellent mutual co-ordination and understanding gave birth to the idea of launching ‘Pranati’ – an organisation to contribute towards literature and music. ‘Chitrachaapa’ – a book containing the write-ups of the five writers, was also planned as Pranati’s first contribution towards literature.
February 10, 2008 is a big day for Pranati. The launch of Pranati and the release of Chitrachaapa were planned for this date. The Pranati team had completed all preparations. Prof. G. Venkatasubbaiah – a veteran Kannada teacher and literate, readily agreed when he was approached to participate in Pranati’s launch and release ‘Chitrachaapa’. While this gesture itself was great pleasure for us, it was more joy to watch a full auditorium at the Indian Institute of World Culture on the big day.
The function started with a prayer. Pranati was lighted by Sri H.K.Srinivasamurthy, Former Director - BEML, amidst a strident ovation. It was a blissful moment for us! Chitrachaapa – our first book comprising of write-ups by Arun, Shreenidhi, Sushrutha, Annapoorna and Srinivasa, was then released by Prof. GV. Later on, when he spoke about the book, we were surprised and honoured to hear that he had read our book not once, but twice! He went on to say his opinions about the book briefly, provided some tips for us on how to improve our writing and wished us heartily.
Kumari Ramya and Kumari Bhavya prayed at the beginning of the function on Pranati’s behalf. While Shreenidhi played the host in the function, Arun delivered the inaugural address and Srinivasa spoke about our team. Sushrutha came up with some insight about Chitrachaapa. Vijaya spoke about Pranati, its aims and objectives, and also delivered the vote of thanks.
While Sri H.K.Srinivasamurthy presided over the function, a well known Kannada story-writer who has been a backbone-like support for us, Vasudhendra, participated in the function. The audience were later soothed by Vidushi H.K.Balasaraswathi’s performance with Veena for about an hour.
We have just opened our eyes in the world of literature. There is still a lot to learn and do. However, this first effort has given us immense pleasure too. We are indeed indebted to Kannada and its admirers for supporting us!
Chitrachaapa – A dedication to nature
Chitrachaapa is a rainbow made out of the colourful dreams of the Pranati team. All of us in our team roam around in forests during our free time seeking to experience nature’s splendour. While doing so, we happen to come across several views, eccentricities and things of interest. Chitrachaapa is chiefly an attempt to project these in words. We learn a lot while amidst nature and the writers also share such knowledge with our readers. Raghavendra Hegde’s catchy sketches increase the beauty of the book as well. Being students of nature, we all felt it apt that our first book should be dedicated to nature.
