The literary world bid a solemn goodbye to S.L. Bhyrappa, the iconic Kannada novelist and philosopher, whose last rites were conducted with full state honors near Chamundi Hill in Mysuru today. The 94-year-old luminary, who passed away Wednesday from a cardiac arrest in a Bengaluru hospital, was cremated following Brahmin customs, led by his sons, S.B. Uday Shankar and S.B. Ravi Shankar, with journalist Vishweshwar Bhat, former MP Pratap Simha, and writer Sahana Vijayakumar joining to light the pyre.

A sea of mourners, including Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, Mysuru’s district in-charge minister H.C. Mahadevappa, and a cross-section of political and cultural figures, gathered to honor Bhyrappa’s towering legacy. On Thursday, his mortal remains were displayed at Bengaluru’s Ravindra Kalakshetra for public tributes before being moved to Mysuru, his long-time home. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, after paying respects, announced plans for a memorial in Mysuru to immortalize the literary giant.

Bhyrappa’s prolific career spanned 25 novels, four volumes of literary criticism, and works delving into aesthetics, social issues, and culture. His masterpieces like Vamshavriksha, Daatu, Parva, and Mandara redefined Kannada literature, with several adapted into acclaimed films (Naayi-Neralu, Matadana, Vamshavriksha, Tabbaliyu Neenaade Magane) and TV series (Gruhabhanga, Daatu). His autobiography, Bhitti (Canvas), offered an intimate glimpse into his journey.

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Honored with the Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, Saraswati Samman, and Sahitya Akademi Awards, Bhyrappa’s works resonated deeply, blending philosophical depth with storytelling. As Karnataka mourns, his legacy endures, etched in the hearts of readers and the cultural fabric of the state, with a memorial set to keep his spirit alive.

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