Noted Kannada Novelist SL Bhyrappa Passes Away At 94, PM Modi Mourns The Loss Of A "Towering Stalwart"

Acclaimed Kannada novelist and philosopher Santeshivara Lingannaiah Bhyrappa, popularly known as SL Bhyrappa, passed away at the age of 94 in Bengaluru on Wednesday (24 September) following a cardiac arrest, The Times of India reported.

Bhyrappa was admitted to Rashtrotthana Hospital, where he suffered cardiac arrest around 2.38 pm, according to a hospital release.

Born on 20 August 1931 in Hassan, Karnataka, Bhyrappa emerged as one of the most influential voices in Indian literature.

His first novel Bheemakaya, published in 1958, marked the beginning of a literary career spanning more than six decades.

He went on to write around 25 novels, many of which were translated into Hindi and several other Indian languages.

For over 25 years, he remained one of the top-selling authors in Kannada.

Paying tribute to Bhyrappa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X: “In the passing of Shri S.L. Bhyrappa Ji, we have lost a towering stalwart who stirred our conscience and delved deep into the soul of India. A fearless and timeless thinker, he profoundly enriched Kannada literature with his thought-provoking works. His writings inspired generations to reflect, question and engage more deeply with society. His unwavering passion for our history and culture will continue to inspire minds for years to come. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this sad hour. Om Shanti.”

Alongside his literary career, Bhyrappa taught philosophy for over three decades, including a tenure at NCERT in Delhi.

His contributions earned him several top honours, the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2015, the Padma Shri in 2016, and the Padma Bhushan in 2023 for his contributions to literature and education.

Bhyrappa leaves behind a rich legacy of ideas, narratives, and critical reflections that continue to shape Kannada literature and Indian thought.

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