Leelavathi S. Rao, a distinguished literary figure, veteran academic, and retired Kannada professor from Surathkal's Govinda Dasa College, passed away recently at the age of 83 in Mysuru. Her demise marks the loss of a significant voice in Kannada literature and a dedicated educator who shaped countless students.
She leaves behind her husband, P. Srinivasa Rao, a retired engineer formerly with MCF, and their son and daughter. Ms. Rao's extensive career in academia began with a two-year tenure as a lecturer at A.V.K. College, Hassan. Subsequently, she served for two years as a research assistant in the Haridasa Sahitya department at Mysuru University, deeply engaging with classical literary traditions.
In 1972, Ms. Rao joined Govinda Dasa College in Surathkal as a lecturer, where she eventually headed the Kannada Department. She retired from the institution in 2001. During her time at the college, she also presided over the Literary Association and acted as its Arts Director, actively fostering a love for literature and art among students.
Beyond her academic roles, Ms. Rao significantly contributed to the literary landscape of the region. She was a founding member and former president of the Karavali Lekhaki Mattu Vachakiyara Sangha (Coastal Writers and Readers Association), serving as a driving force behind numerous literary activities. Her dedication extended to holding honorary presidency of Kaalaji Sahitya Sanghatane and serving as a member of the Mangaluru University Kannada Academic Board and the Textbook Creation Committee.
Ms. Rao authored several prominent works, including 'Dasasahityada Kelavu Notagalu,' 'Pracheena Kannada Sahityadalli Mahile,' 'Eruva Ba Kedarashikhara,' and 'Kiriyarige Hiriyara Kathegalu.' She also edited significant collections such as 'Helavanakatte Giriyammanna Keertanegalu' and 'Nidaguruki Jivubaiyavara Keertanegalu.' Her literary contributions earned her various accolades, including a Kannada Sahitya Parishat book award. She also presided over the Mangaluru Taluk Sahitya Sammelana held in Kulai.
Prominent personalities and organizations have expressed their condolences. Among them are senior critic Prof. B.A. Vivek Rai, senior writer Chandrakala Nandavara, Kalkura Pratishtana President Pradeep Kumar Kalkura, Karavali Lekhakiyara Mattu Vachakiyara Sangha President Shakuntala Shetty, Hindu Vidyadayini Sangha President Jayachandra Hathwar and its members, and Govinda Dasa College Principal Prof. Harish Acharya and its faculty.
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đź“° Source: Vartha Bharati DK