Jnanpith Award goes to Kannada writer Kambara

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The prestigious Jnanpith award for 2009 has gone to noted Kannada writer, poet and playwright Chandrashekhara Kambara.

He is the eighth Kannada writer to receive the coveted award, which has been given to him for his contributions to Kannada literature.

A former MLC, Mr Kambara is no stranger to accolades, having received many awards, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for his famous work, Siri Sampige.

He has to his credit 21 plays, eight collections of poems, three novels and 12 books on research into folklore, theatre, literature and education, besides the epic poem ,'Chakori'.

Born in Ghodgeri village of Hukkeri taluk in Belgaum on January 2, 1937, he remains as modest as ever, dedicating this latest award to the teachers and friends who helped him in his career as a writer, singer, playwright and artiste.

"I have done only half the work, the rest is all a result of their help," he told the Deccan Chronicle.

President of the Kannada Sahitya Parishat, Dr. Nallur R Prasad, said the award was a recognition of Mr. Kambara's contribution to the Kannada language in general and to folk literature in particular. "He is unique.

His style of work cannot be compared to anyone else's," he said. Kamabara was also congratulated by Chief Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda and Kannada and culture minister Govind M Karjol .

Jnanpith winners for Kannada

Kuvempu for Shri Ramayana Darshanam, 1967)

Da Raa Bendhre for Naaku Tanthi, 1973

Shivaram Karanth for Mookajjiya Kanasugalu, 1977

Masti Venkatesh Iyengar for Chikka-veera Raajendhra, 1983

Vi. Kru. Gokak for Bhaaratha Sindhhu Rashmi, 1990

U. R. Ananthamurthy for his works in Kannada, 1994

Girish Karnad for his works in Kannada, 1998