ನಾವು ಬಯಸಿದಂತೆ ಬದುಕುವ ಸ್ವಾತಂತ್ರ್ಯ ಯಾವತ್ತೂ ಭಯಾನಕ ಹೋರಾಟದ ಫಲವೇ ಹೊರತು ಸುಲಭಕ್ಕೆ ಸಿಗುವುದಿಲ್ಲ.

ನಾವು ಬಯಸಿದಂತೆ ಬದುಕುವ ಸ್ವಾತಂತ್ರ್ಯ ಯಾವತ್ತೂ ಭಯಾನಕ ಹೋರಾಟದ ಫಲವೇ ಹೊರತು ಸುಲಭಕ್ಕೆ ಸಿಗುವುದಿಲ್ಲ.

On this day, September 8, we warmly commemorate the birth anniversary of a remarkable figure in Indian literature and a devoted environmentalist, Kuppali Puttappa Poornachandra Tejaswi.

Kuppali Puttappa Poornachandra Tejaswi, a name deeply etched in the annals of Indian literary history, was born on September 8, 1938, in the picturesque village of Kuppali, nestled within the scenic Shimoga district of Karnataka. This polymath was a towering presence in not only Kannada literature but also in the realms of photography, publishing, painting, naturalism, and environmental advocacy. His multifaceted talents and unwavering commitment left an enduring imprint on India's cultural and literary landscape.

Although Tejaswi was the son of the celebrated Kannada poet Kuvempu, he was resolute in forging his unique path in the world of art and letters. His literary journey began with poetry but swiftly evolved to encompass short stories, novels, and essays. His distinctive writing style not only set him apart but also ushered in a new era in Kannada literature.

One of Tejaswi's early triumphs was clinching the Best Story Award in a competition hosted by the Prajavani Kannada newspaper during Deepavali. His winning story, "Linga Banda," offered readers a captivating glimpse into the lush Western Ghats through the eyes of a young boy. It was an early indication of his profound connection with nature and his extraordinary ability to convey its essence through words.

Following his education at the prestigious Maharaja College in Mysore, Tejaswi's passion for nature and farming led him to acquire a coffee estate in the Mudigere taluk of Chikmagalur District. This move allowed him to immerse himself in the natural beauty of the Western Ghats, further enriching his understanding of the environment.

Tejaswi's affection for nature extended beyond his writings. He was an enthusiastic naturalist, always eager to explore the forests of the Western Ghats. His wanderings in these lush landscapes fueled his creativity and gave birth to some of his most compelling literary works.

Within his extensive literary portfolio, Tejaswi experimented with various forms of expression, including poetry, short stories, novels, travel literature, plays, and science fiction. However, the common thread weaving through his work was his unwavering bond with the natural world. Nature and its myriad wonders played pivotal roles in most of his literary creations.

Among his many works, "Karvalo" stands out as a masterpiece. This novel takes readers on a thrilling adventure as the author embarks on a quest to discover a flying lizard hidden within the dense forests of the Western Ghats. Through his vivid storytelling, Tejaswi not only entertained but also educated readers about the intricate marvels of the natural world.

The literary legacy of Poornachandra Tejaswi endures, captivating readers across generations. His works remain perennially popular, with numerous reprints and a lasting presence on readers' bookshelves. His writings stand as a testament to his profound love for nature and his ability to weave its enchanting tales into the fabric of Kannada literature.

As we commemorate the birthday of this literary luminary and environmentalist, we celebrate not only his contributions to literature but also his enduring affection for the environment. Poornachandra Tejaswi's life and work continue to inspire all who aspire to explore the beauty of nature through the written word, leaving an indomitable legacy that will thrive in the hearts and minds of readers for generations to come.