Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Thursday, September 25, 2025, that the state government will undertake measures to construct a memorial in Mysuru for the celebrated Kannada novelist and philosopher S L Bhyrappa, who passed away at the age of 94 due to cardiac arrest on Wednesday. The announcement came as the chief minister paid his last respects to Bhyrappa at Ravindra Kalakshetra in Bengaluru, where the writer’s mortal remains were kept for public homage. Bhyrappa’s cremation, to be conducted with full state honors, is scheduled for September 26 in Mysuru, where he spent much of his life and career.

Siddaramaiah emphasized Mysuru’s significance in Bhyrappa’s life, noting, “He spent most of his life in Mysuru, his education and most of his professional and literary life was in Mysuru.” The chief minister, who expressed regret that Bhyrappa did not receive the prestigious Jnanpith Award despite earning accolades like the Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, Saraswati Samman, and Sahitya Akademi Award, underscored the novelist’s global impact. Bhyrappa’s 25 novels, including masterpieces like Vamshavriksha, Daatu, Parva, and Mandara, have been translated into 40 languages, earning him a vast readership worldwide.

The chief minister reflected on his personal admiration for Bhyrappa, despite their differing ideological views, stating, “Literature and friendship are separate from one’s viewpoints. Having different views doesn’t mean I cannot be his admirer.” Bhyrappa, known for his straightforwardness as highlighted by Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, wrote for “self-satisfaction,” drawing from life experiences to create works that resonated globally. Several of his novels, such as Naayi-Neralu and Tabbaliyu Neenaade Magane, were adapted into films, while Gruhabhanga and Daatu became TV series. His autobiography, Bhitti (Canvas), further enriched his literary legacy.

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The decision to build a memorial in Mysuru, a city deeply tied to Bhyrappa’s educational and professional journey, has garnered support across political and literary circles. State BJP chief B Y Vijayendra and other prominent figures joined in paying tributes, reflecting Bhyrappa’s widespread influence. The memorial will serve as a lasting tribute to a literary titan whose works explored social issues, culture, and human experiences, cementing his place as one of India’s most revered novelists.

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