Novels narrate history and enable analysis: Yekkar

Mangaluru: A novel is not history, but it performs the function of narrating history, said Dr Gananath Yekkar, president of the Dr Shivaram Karanth Trust. "History demands records, while a novel allows for both history and analysis," he added.He was speaking at the event ‘Aanjel-75', marking the 75th anniversary of the publication of the first Konkani novel in Kannada script, ‘Aanjel' by Joachim Santan Alvares, in 1950. It was organised by the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy on Sunday. Yekkar mentioned that a deep understanding of literature of any language leads to love for it. "Novel Aanjel is a historical milestone. Such works and events inspire today's youth in literary creation and pave the way for the expansion of literature to future generations," he said. On the 75th anniversary of the publication of the novel, he emphasised the need for training in literary creation for students and youth, which would foster the growth of Konkani literature. "The academy should also encourage this by providing training, which would inspire the youth and nurture a love for literature," he said. On the occasion, the ebook of the novel Aanjel was released by Fr Rocky D'Cunha, president of the Konkani Natak Sabha. He remarked that author JS Alvares was a talented individual whose contribution to enriching Konkani literature is well-known and serves as an inspiration to the youth.The event was presided over by academy chairman Joaquim Stany Alvares. Monica Alvares, the wife of late JS Alvares, was the guest of honour. Richard Alvares spoke about JS Alvares, and Dr Dimple Fernandes Puttur discussed the first Konkani novel. Keron Allen Madtha, who converted the novel into an ebook, spoke about the necessity of ebooks.