HAVERI: A 75-foot Kanaka Kavya
Gopura
(
tower
) has been built in
Haveri district
to celebrate the literary works of saint-poet
Kanaka Dasa
. The structure built by
Kaginele
Development Authority (KDA) at Kaginele Eco Park will soon be inaugurated.
The saint-poet is popular for his keertanas (verses) and Ugabhoga compositions in Kannada. It is said his compositions are apt for adaptations in
Carnatic music
.
The tower has five parts depicting the life and times of Kanaka Dasa, Keertana, Mohana Tarangini, Nala Charitre and Ramadhanya Charite. There is also a tamburi (music instrument) atop the gopura.
Jagannath Genannavar, researcher at KDA, said the gopura has been designed on a unique concept, with the five steps explaining the life history of the saint-poet and his contribution to Kannada literature. “The portion explaining ‘Hari Bhakti Sara’ is important as it is the essence of life. By seeing the images on the tower, even the illiterate can get to know about the saint-poet. We hope Kanaka Kavya Goupura will be a big draw,” he said.
“The 75-foot tower is visible from a distance. While the images on its steps speak about his lifestyle, literature and thoughts, the tamburi indicates that it had been an integral part of Kanaka Dasa,” said Mallesheppa Horapete, KDA commissioner.
Sudha D S, teacher at a primary government school, said many students don’t know much about Kanaka Dasa. “ But one visit to the gopura can enlighten them on the saint-poet. Thanks to KDA for constructing such a beautiful and meaningful tower,” she said.
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