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{{short description|Indian poet, playwright}}
{{short description|Indian poet and playwright (born 1937)}}
{{Use British English|date=March 2013}}
{{Use British English|date=March 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2020}}
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|image      = Chandrashekhara Kambara.jpg
|image      = Chandrashekhara Kambara.jpg
|imagesize  = 150px
|imagesize  = 150px
|caption    = Kambara during a talk about "Kannada in Technology" in Bangalore, 2013
|caption    = Kambara during a talk about "Kannada in Technology" in [[Bangalore]], 2013
|pseudonym  =  
|pseudonym  =  
|birth_name  =  
|birth_name  =  
|birth_date  = {{Birth date and age|1937|1|2|df=y}}
|birth_date  = {{Birth date and age|1937|1|2|df=y}}
|birth_place = [[Ghodageri]], [[Belagavi district|Belagavi]], [[Bombay Presidency]], [[British India]]
|birth_place = [[Ghodageri]], [[Belagavi district|Belagavi]], [[Bombay Presidency]], [[British India]] (Present day [[Karnataka]], [[India]])
|spouse      = Satyabhama
|spouse      = Satyabhama
|children    = 4
|children    = 4
|death_date  =  
|death_date  =  
|death_place =  
|death_place =  
|occupation  = {{plainlist|Poet
|occupation  = {{plainlist|[[Poet]]
* Playwright
* [[Playwright]]
* Professor}}
* [[Professor]]}}
|alma_mater  = PhD from [[Karnataka University]], [[Dharwad]]<ref name="deccan" />
|alma_mater  = PhD from [[Karnataka University]], [[Dharwad]]<ref name="deccan" />
|period      = 1937–present
|period      = 1937–present
|genre      = Fiction
|genre      = Fiction
|subject    =  
|subject    =  
|awards      = [[Jnanpith Award]] <br /> [[Sahitya Akademi Award]] <br /> [[Padma Shri]] <br /> [[Pampa Award]]
|awards      = [[Jnanpith Award]] <br /> [[Sahitya Akademi Award]] <br /> [[Padma Shri]] <br /> [[Pampa Award]]<br /> [[Padma Bhushan]]
|movement    =  
|movement    =  
|notableworks =  
|notableworks =  
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}}
}}


'''Chandrashekhara Kambara''' ({{lang-kn|ಚಂದ್ರಶೇಖರ ಕಂಬಾರ}}; born 2 January 1937) is a prominent Indian poet, [[playwright]], [[Folklore|folklorist]], film director in [[Kannada language]] and the founder-vice-chancellor of [[Kannada University]] in [[Hampi]] also president of the Sahitya Akademi, country's premier literary institution, after Vinayak Krishna Gokak (1983) and U.R. Ananthamurthy (1993).<ref name="chancellor">{{cite web|url=http://www.kannadauniversity.org/TribalStudies.htm|title=Giri Seeme: The Tribal Village|work=Department of Tribal Studies, Kannada University|publisher=Kannada University, Hampi|access-date=2007-07-11|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929011807/http://www.kannadauniversity.org/TribalStudies.htm|archive-date=29 September 2007}}</ref> He is known for effective adaptation of the [[North Karnataka]] dialect of the Kannada language in his plays, and poems, in a similar style as in the works of [[D.R. Bendre]].<ref name=Award>{{Cite news|url=http://samvada.org/2011/news/senior-kannada-writer-rss-well-wisher-dr-chandrashekhara-kambara-gets-jnanapith-award/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925022852/http://samvada.org/2011/news/senior-kannada-writer-rss-well-wisher-dr-chandrashekhara-kambara-gets-jnanapith-award/|url-status=dead|archive-date=25 September 2011|title=Senior Kannada Writer Dr Chandrashekhara Kambara gets Jnanpith Award, 8th for Kannada Language|date=19 September 2011|newspaper=Samvada}}</ref>
'''Chandrashekhara Basavanneppa Kambara''' (born 2 January 1937) is a prominent Indian [[poet]], [[playwright]], [[Folklore|folklorist]], film director in [[Kannada language]] and the founder-vice-chancellor of [[Kannada University]] in [[Hampi]] also president of the Sahitya Akademi, country's premier literary institution, after Vinayak Krishna Gokak (1983) and U.R. Ananthamurthy (1993).<ref name="chancellor">{{cite web|url=http://www.kannadauniversity.org/TribalStudies.htm|title=Giri Seeme: The Tribal Village|work=Department of Tribal Studies, Kannada University|publisher=Kannada University, Hampi|access-date=2007-07-11|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929011807/http://www.kannadauniversity.org/TribalStudies.htm|archive-date=29 September 2007}}</ref> He is known for effective adaptation of the [[North Karnataka]] dialect of the Kannada language in his plays, and poems, in a similar style as in the works of [[D.R. Bendre]].<ref name=Award>{{Cite news|url=http://samvada.org/2011/news/senior-kannada-writer-rss-well-wisher-dr-chandrashekhara-kambara-gets-jnanapith-award/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925022852/http://samvada.org/2011/news/senior-kannada-writer-rss-well-wisher-dr-chandrashekhara-kambara-gets-jnanapith-award/|url-status=dead|archive-date=25 September 2011|title=Senior Kannada Writer Dr Chandrashekhara Kambara gets Jnanpith Award, 8th for Kannada Language|date=19 September 2011|newspaper=Samvada}}</ref>


Kambara's plays mainly revolve around folk or [[mythology]] interlinked with contemporary issues,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kambar-does-karnataka-proud-with-jnanpith/185818-60-115.html |title=IBN Live – Kambar does Karnataka proud with Jnanpith |publisher=Ibnlive.in.com |date=20 September 2011 |access-date=20 September 2011 |archive-date=17 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121017223537/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kambar-does-karnataka-proud-with-jnanpith/185818-60-115.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> inculcating modern lifestyle with his hard-hitting poems. He has become a pioneer of such literature.<ref name="times1" /> His contribution as a playwright is significant not only to Kannada theatre but also to the [[Theatre of India|Indian theatre]] in general as he achieved a blend of the folk and the modern theatrical forms.<ref name="hindushiv">[http://www.thehindu.com/arts/books/article2476293.ece The Hindu – Speaking from Shivapura] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925034042/http://www.thehindu.com/arts/books/article2476293.ece |date=25 September 2011 }}</ref>
Kambara's plays mainly revolve around folk or [[mythology]] interlinked with contemporary issues,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kambar-does-karnataka-proud-with-jnanpith/185818-60-115.html |title=IBN Live – Kambar does Karnataka proud with Jnanpith |publisher=Ibnlive.in.com |date=20 September 2011 |access-date=20 September 2011 |archive-date=17 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121017223537/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kambar-does-karnataka-proud-with-jnanpith/185818-60-115.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> inculcating modern lifestyle with his hard-hitting poems. He has become a pioneer of such literature.<ref name="times1" /> His contribution as a playwright is significant not only to Kannada theatre but also to the [[Theatre of India|Indian theatre]] in general as he achieved a blend of the folk and the modern theatrical forms.<ref name="hindushiv">[http://www.thehindu.com/arts/books/article2476293.ece The Hindu – Speaking from Shivapura] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925034042/http://www.thehindu.com/arts/books/article2476293.ece |date=25 September 2011 }}</ref>
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==Early life==
==Early life==
Chandrashekhara Kambara was born in [[Ghodageri]], a village in [[Belgaum district]] of [[Bombay Presidency]] (today in [[Karnataka]]). He was the third son in the family, with brothers Parasappa and Yallappa who still reside in the small house belonging to the Kambara family in the village.<ref name="times1">{{cite web|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-20/bangalore/30179268_1_gokak-yallappa-village |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120418062918/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-20/bangalore/30179268_1_gokak-yallappa-village |url-status=dead |archive-date=18 April 2012 |work=[[The Times of India]] |title=Home village Ghodageri erupts in celebration|date=20 September 2011}}</ref> From an early age, Kambara was interested in folk arts, local culture and ritual.<ref name="deccan">{{cite web|url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/192178/a-true-grass-roots-level.html |title=Jnanpith award: Deccan Herald – Kambar realised the universal in indigenous, native culture in modern times |work=Deccan Herald |date=20 September 2011}}</ref> His favorite Kannada writers include [[Kumara Vyasa]], [[Basava]], [[Kuvempu]] and [[Gopalakrishna Adiga]] and among English writers, it is [[W. B. Yeats]], [[William Shakespeare]] and [[Federico García Lorca]].<ref name="timesinter" />
Chandrashekhara Kambara was born in kannada-speaking family in [[Ghodageri]], a village in [[Belgaum district]] of [[Bombay Presidency]] (today in [[Karnataka]]). He was the third son in the family, with brothers Parasappa and Yallappa who still reside in the small house belonging to the Kambara family in the village.<ref name="times1">{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/Home-village-erupts-in-celebration/articleshow/10047724.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120418062918/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-20/bangalore/30179268_1_gokak-yallappa-village |url-status=live |archive-date=18 April 2012 |work=[[The Times of India]] |title=Home village Ghodageri erupts in celebration|date=20 September 2011}}</ref> From an early age, Kambara was interested in folk arts, local culture and ritual.<ref name="deccan">{{cite web|url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/192178/a-true-grass-roots-level.html |title=Jnanpith award: Deccan Herald – Kambar realised the universal in indigenous, native culture in modern times |work=Deccan Herald |date=20 September 2011}}</ref> His favorite Kannada writers include [[Kumara Vyasa]], [[Basava]], [[Kuvempu]] and [[Gopalakrishna Adiga]] and among English writers, it is [[W. B. Yeats]], [[William Shakespeare]] and [[Federico García Lorca]].<ref name="timesinter" />


Popularly known as ''Shivapur Kambar Master'' in his native district, Kambara had his schooling in [[Gokak]] and returned to Belagavi for higher education at Lingaraj College. Owing to poverty, he had to [[Dropping out|drop out]] of school<ref name="timesinter">{{cite web|author=SEETHALAKSHMI S |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-21/bangalore/30183838_1_folklore-village-stories/2 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130103090850/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-21/bangalore/30183838_1_folklore-village-stories/2 |url-status=dead |archive-date=3 January 2013 |work=[[The Times of India]] |title=Times of India – Kambar's next is a comedy on thieves |date=21 September 2011}}</ref> but Jagadguru Siddaram Swamiji of [[Savalagi]] [[Matha]] blessed Kambara and took care of all his primary and high school educational expenses which is why Kambara honours the [[Prophet|seer]] in many of his writings.<ref name="times1" /> After his post-graduation, he did his PhD thesis on ''Uttara Karnatakada Janapad Rangbhumi'' ("The Folk Theatre of North Karnataka") from [[Karnataka University]], [[Dharwad]].<ref name="ibn">{{cite web|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/eighth-moment-of-glory-for-kannada/185884-60.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121017223447/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/eighth-moment-of-glory-for-kannada/185884-60.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=17 October 2012 |title=The New Indian Express – Eighth moment of glory for Kannada |publisher=Ibnlive.in.com |date=21 September 2011}}</ref>
Popularly known as ''Shivapur Kambar Master'' in his native district, Kambara had his schooling in [[Gokak]] and returned to Belagavi for higher education at Lingaraj College. Owing to poverty, he had to [[Dropping out|drop out]] of school<ref name="timesinter">{{cite web|author=SEETHALAKSHMI S |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-21/bangalore/30183838_1_folklore-village-stories/2 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130103090850/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-21/bangalore/30183838_1_folklore-village-stories/2 |url-status=dead |archive-date=3 January 2013 |work=[[The Times of India]] |title=Times of India – Kambar's next is a comedy on thieves |date=21 September 2011}}</ref> but Jagadguru Siddaram Swamiji of [[Savalagi]] [[Matha]] blessed Kambara and took care of all his primary and high school educational expenses which is why Kambara honours the [[Prophet|seer]] in many of his writings.<ref name="times1" /> After his post-graduation, he did his PhD thesis on ''Uttara Karnatakada Janapad Rangbhumi'' ("The Folk Theatre of North Karnataka") from [[Karnataka University]], [[Dharwad]].<ref name="ibn">{{cite web|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/eighth-moment-of-glory-for-kannada/185884-60.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121017223447/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/eighth-moment-of-glory-for-kannada/185884-60.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=17 October 2012 |title=The New Indian Express – Eighth moment of glory for Kannada |publisher=Ibnlive.in.com |date=21 September 2011}}</ref>
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Kambara is the founder vice-chancellor of the [[Kannada University]] at [[Hampi]]. His grand vision of Kannada literature and Karnataka culture is reflected in the way he showed commitment to build it. The architecture, the choice of the subjects that cover the diverse variety of culture and society of Karnataka, selection of place, faculty or academic activities, the scholars whom he drafted from different parts of the state and the Nadoja honorary award instead of the [[Doctorate|honorary doctorate]] which he introduced, show Kambara's native vision which was evolved in his literary works for decades.<ref name="hindushiv" />
Kambara is the founder vice-chancellor of the [[Kannada University]] at [[Hampi]]. His grand vision of Kannada literature and Karnataka culture is reflected in the way he showed commitment to build it. The architecture, the choice of the subjects that cover the diverse variety of culture and society of Karnataka, selection of place, faculty or academic activities, the scholars whom he drafted from different parts of the state and the Nadoja honorary award instead of the [[Doctorate|honorary doctorate]] which he introduced, show Kambara's native vision which was evolved in his literary works for decades.<ref name="hindushiv" />


As the first vice-chancellor of the University, Kambara served two terms of three years each, during which he could shape it in a unique manner, compared to other traditional universities. All the constructions during his tenure as the vice-chancellor are on hillocks, with huge stone structures resembling the [[Vijayanagara architecture|Vijayanagara period architecture]]. He also created a separate publication unit for publishing the results of research and project works going on in Kannada University.<ref>{{cite web|author=A Murigeppa  |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-21/bangalore/30183739_1_folk-modern-poetry-guest-house |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106141302/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-21/bangalore/30183739_1_folk-modern-poetry-guest-house |url-status=dead |archive-date=6 November 2012 |work=[[The Times of India]]  |title=Times of India – Kannada varsity has Kambar stamp all over |date=21 September 2011}}</ref>
As the first vice-chancellor of the University, Kambara served two terms of three years each, during which he could shape it in a unique manner, compared to other traditional universities. All the constructions during his tenure as the vice-chancellor are on hillocks, with huge stone structures resembling the [[Vijayanagara architecture|Vijayanagara period architecture]]. He also created a separate publication unit for publishing the results of research and project works going on in Kannada University.<ref>{{cite web|author=A Murigeppa  |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/Kannada-varsity-has-Kambar-stamp-all-over/articleshow/10059322.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106141302/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-21/bangalore/30183739_1_folk-modern-poetry-guest-house |url-status=live |archive-date=6 November 2012 |work=[[The Times of India]]  |title=Times of India – Kannada varsity has Kambar stamp all over |date=21 September 2011}}</ref>


He is a strong supporter of imparting school education with [[Kannada|Kannada language]] as the [[medium of instruction]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/bengaluru/nationalise-school-level-education-says-kambara-944 |title=Nationalise school-level education, says Kambara |work=Deccan Chronicle}}</ref> His justification for this stance is that only [[First language|mother tongue]] can provide an "[[experience]]," which is an integral part of learning and learning through any other language only gives people "information," which makes them less competent.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/193239/kambar-bats-kannada-schools.html#top |title=Kambar bats for Kannada in schools |work=Deccan Herald |date=24 September 2011}}</ref> This concurs with [[UNESCO]]'s recommendation that "providing education in a child's mother tongue is a critical issue."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0015/001540/154007e.pdf |title=Results of the 7th consultation of member states on the implementation of the Convention and Recommendation against discrimination in education (Para. 41)}}</ref>
He is a strong supporter of imparting school education with [[Kannada|Kannada language]] as the [[medium of instruction]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/bengaluru/nationalise-school-level-education-says-kambara-944 |title=Nationalise school-level education, says Kambara |work=Deccan Chronicle |access-date=23 September 2011 |archive-date=21 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121055218/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/bengaluru/nationalise-school-level-education-says-kambara-944 |url-status=dead }}</ref> His justification for this stance is that only [[First language|mother tongue]] can provide an "[[experience]]," which is an integral part of learning and learning through any other language only gives people "information," which makes them less competent.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/193239/kambar-bats-kannada-schools.html#top |title=Kambar bats for Kannada in schools |work=Deccan Herald |date=24 September 2011}}</ref> This concurs with [[UNESCO]]'s recommendation that "providing education in a child's mother tongue is a critical issue."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0015/001540/154007e.pdf |title=Results of the 7th consultation of member states on the implementation of the Convention and Recommendation against discrimination in education (Para. 41)}}</ref>


==Works==
==Works==
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He was a pioneer in introducing [[Bailahongal]]'s famous ''Sangya Balya'' ([[bayalata]]) and ''Jokumaraswamy,'' a traditional ritual of his native district, to the literary world<ref name="deccan" /> which have seen thousands of performances, not only in Kannada, but several other [[Languages of India|Indian languages]] as well.<ref name="hindu">{{cite web|author=Special Correspondent |url=http://www.thehindu.com/arts/books/article2468374.ece |title=Jnanpith for Kambar |work=The Hindu |date=20 September 2011}}</ref> His most recent novel, ''Shikhar Soorya'', is rated among the best Kannada novels.<ref name="ibn" />
He was a pioneer in introducing [[Bailahongal]]'s famous ''Sangya Balya'' ([[bayalata]]) and ''Jokumaraswamy,'' a traditional ritual of his native district, to the literary world<ref name="deccan" /> which have seen thousands of performances, not only in Kannada, but several other [[Languages of India|Indian languages]] as well.<ref name="hindu">{{cite web|author=Special Correspondent |url=http://www.thehindu.com/arts/books/article2468374.ece |title=Jnanpith for Kambar |work=The Hindu |date=20 September 2011}}</ref> His most recent novel, ''Shikhar Soorya'', is rated among the best Kannada novels.<ref name="ibn" />


Many of his works have been [[Translated#Literary translation|translated]] to English and several other Indian languages. The play ''Jokumaraswamy'' has been translated to English (Seagull Books, Calcutta in 1989), [[Marathi language|Marathi]] (Abholi Prakashan, Solhapur in 2000), [[Hindi]] (Vidya Prakashan Mandir, New Delhi in 1985), [[Telugu language|Telugu]] (Mudrika Printers, Kurnool in 1993), [[Tamil language|Tamil]], [[Punjabi language|Punjabi]] and Malayalam among others. The [[Sahitya Akademi Award]]-winning play ''Sirisampige'' has been translated to English (Seagull Books)<ref>[http://www.cse.iitk.ac.in/~amit/books/deshpande-2004-modern-indian-drama.html Modern Indian Drama], ed. [[G.P. Deshpande]], [[Sahitya Akademi]], 2004]</ref> and to Tamil, Hindi, Marathi and [[Rajasthani language|Rajasthani]] by the [[Sahitya Akademi]], New Delhi. His novel "Singarevva Mattu Aramane"  translated as ''Kulothe Chingaramma'', to [[Malayalam]] by C Raghavan, is one of his works that has become popular in Kerala.<ref>{{cite web|author=Gayathri Sasibhooshan |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-21/kochi/30184157_1_jnanpith-award-literary-award-award-winners |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120707153311/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-21/kochi/30184157_1_jnanpith-award-literary-award-award-winners |url-status=dead |archive-date=7 July 2012 |work=[[The Times of India]] |title=Times of India – Kambar deserves Jnanpith: M Leelavathy |date=21 September 2011}}</ref>
Many of his works have been [[Translated#Literary translation|translated]] to English and several other Indian languages. The play ''Jokumaraswamy'' has been translated to English (Seagull Books, Calcutta in 1989), [[Marathi language|Marathi]] (Abholi Prakashan, Solhapur in 2000), [[Hindi]] (Vidya Prakashan Mandir, New Delhi in 1985), [[Telugu language|Telugu]] (Mudrika Printers, Kurnool in 1993), [[Tamil language|Tamil]], [[Punjabi language|Punjabi]] and Malayalam among others. The [[Sahitya Akademi Award]]-winning play ''Sirisampige'' has been translated to English (Seagull Books)<ref>[http://www.cse.iitk.ac.in/~amit/books/deshpande-2004-modern-indian-drama.html Modern Indian Drama], ed. [[G.P. Deshpande]], [[Sahitya Akademi]], 2004]</ref> and to Tamil, Hindi, Marathi and [[Rajasthani language|Rajasthani]] by the [[Sahitya Akademi]], New Delhi. His novel "Singarevva Mattu Aramane"  translated as ''Kulothe Chingaramma'', to [[Malayalam]] by C Raghavan, is one of his works that has become popular in Kerala.<ref>{{cite web|author=Gayathri Sasibhooshan |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/Kambar-deserves-Jnanpith-M-Leelavathy/articleshow/10059831.cms |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120707153311/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-21/kochi/30184157_1_jnanpith-award-literary-award-award-winners |url-status=live |archive-date=7 July 2012 |work=[[The Times of India]] |title=Times of India – Kambar deserves Jnanpith: M Leelavathy |date=21 September 2011}}</ref>


Apart from his literary career, Kambara has been associated with direction of feature films. His directorial work in many movies on the plays scripted by him; he has directed films such as Karimayi, Sangeeta and Kadu Kudare. Jeeke Maastara Pranaya Prasanga. Two of his plays which have been made into television series. His contributions include many documentaries for the Government of Karnataka and Government of India.<ref name=Award/> His "Kaadu Kudure" entered into the Indian Panorama and won the National Award. His film "Sangeeta" won the Best Feature Film State Award in the year 1981. He has also adopted his play ''G.K. Maastarara Pranaya Prasanga'' for television.
Apart from his literary career, Kambara has been associated with direction of feature films. His directorial work in many movies on the plays scripted by him; he has directed films such as Karimayi, Sangeeta and Kadu Kudare. Jeeke Maastara Pranaya Prasanga. Two of his plays which have been made into television series. His contributions include many documentaries for the Government of Karnataka and Government of India.<ref name=Award/> His "Kaadu Kudure" entered into the Indian Panorama and won the National Award. His film "Sangeeta" won the Best Feature Film State Award in the year 1981. He has also adopted his play ''G.K. Maastarara Pranaya Prasanga'' for television.
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In his lengthy [[Narrative poetry|narrative poem]] ''Helatena Kela'' ("Listen, I will tell you") in the early 1960s, Kambara introduced some of the recurring [[Theme (literature)|themes]] which he would often return to in his later works. Themes of tradition and modernity, [[Feudalism|crises of feudalism]], [[Indigenous peoples|native identities]], [[colonialism]], march of history, sex, loss of faith, the [[God is dead|death of God]] and several related themes explored later in his plays, novels and poetry had found metaphorical expression in the narrative poem.<ref name="hindushiv" /> The eponymous, long narrative poem has the musicality and rhythm of the [[Lavani]] form and uses rich earthy imagery.<ref>[http://www.frontline.in/stories/20111104282209000.htm Frontline Magazine – Modern myth-maker] {{dead link|date=May 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>
In his lengthy [[Narrative poetry|narrative poem]] ''Helatena Kela'' ("Listen, I will tell you") in the early 1960s, Kambara introduced some of the recurring [[Theme (literature)|themes]] which he would often return to in his later works. Themes of tradition and modernity, [[Feudalism|crises of feudalism]], [[Indigenous peoples|native identities]], [[colonialism]], march of history, sex, loss of faith, the [[God is dead|death of God]] and several related themes explored later in his plays, novels and poetry had found metaphorical expression in the narrative poem.<ref name="hindushiv" /> The eponymous, long narrative poem has the musicality and rhythm of the [[Lavani]] form and uses rich earthy imagery.<ref>[http://www.frontline.in/stories/20111104282209000.htm Frontline Magazine – Modern myth-maker] {{dead link|date=May 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>


''Shivapura'' is an imaginary [[utopian]] village which continues to be a character, a [[metaphor]] and the locale in most of his works. It forms the locus of his poems and tales.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-21/bangalore/30183724_1_banyan-tree-arcadian-remedios |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120928085448/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-21/bangalore/30183724_1_banyan-tree-arcadian-remedios |url-status=dead |archive-date=28 September 2012 |work=[[The Times of India]] |title=Times of India – Shivapur, his magical world |date=21 September 2011}}</ref> In his characterisation, [[Shiva|Lord Shiva]] and [[Parvati]] visit the place and bless the villagers. Even [[Rama]], when he was [[Ramayana|going to Sri Lanka]] in search of [[Sita]], visits the village en route.<ref name="ibn" />
''Shivapura'' is an imaginary [[utopian]] village which continues to be a character, a [[metaphor]] and the locale in most of his works. It forms the locus of his poems and tales.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/-Shivapur-his-magical-world/articleshow/10059337.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120928085448/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-21/bangalore/30183724_1_banyan-tree-arcadian-remedios |url-status=live |archive-date=28 September 2012 |work=[[The Times of India]] |title=Times of India – Shivapur, his magical world |date=21 September 2011}}</ref> In his characterisation, [[Shiva|Lord Shiva]] and [[Parvati]] visit the place and bless the villagers. Even [[Rama]], when he was [[Ramayana|going to Sri Lanka]] in search of [[Sita]], visits the village en route.<ref name="ibn" />
 
==Filmography==
* ''Karimaayi'' (1975) (director)
* ''[[Kaadu Kudure]]'' (1979) (director)
* ''Sangeeta'' (1980) (director)
* ''G.K. Maastarara Pranaya Prasanga'' (1986) (television)
* ''Rishyashringa'' (1970)
* ''Huliya Neralu'' (1980)
* ''[[Singaaravva]]'' (1982) (writer)
* ''[[Harakeya Kuri]]'' (1983) (writer)


==Awards and honours==
==Awards and honours==
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===State awards===
===State awards===
* [[Kadammanitta Ramakrishnan Award]] (Kerala, 2018)<ref>[https://www.mathrubhumi.com/print-edition/kerala/pathanamthitta-1.2711534 "കടമ്മനിട്ട പുരസ്‌കാരം ചന്ദ്രശേഖര കമ്പാറിന് സമ്മാനിച്ചു"]. ''Mathrubhumi''. 1 April 2018. Retrieved 3 June 2020.</ref>
* [[Kadammanitta Ramakrishnan Award]] (Kerala, 2018)<ref>[https://www.mathrubhumi.com/print-edition/kerala/pathanamthitta-1.2711534 "കടമ്മനിട്ട പുരസ്‌കാരം ചന്ദ്രശേഖര കമ്പാറിന് സമ്മാനിച്ചു"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200603090440/https://www.mathrubhumi.com/print-edition/kerala/pathanamthitta-1.2711534 |date=3 June 2020 }}. ''Mathrubhumi''. 1 April 2018. Retrieved 3 June 2020.</ref>
* [[List of Sangeet Natak Akademi fellows|Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship]] (Akademy Ratna Award, 2011)
* [[List of Sangeet Natak Akademi fellows|Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship]] (Akademy Ratna Award, 2011)
* Devaraj Urs Award (Karnataka, 2007)
* Devaraj Urs Award (Karnataka, 2007)
* Joshua Sahitya Puraskaram (Andhra Pradesh, 2005)
* Joshua Sahitya Puraskaram (Andhra Pradesh, 2005)
* Nadoja Award (2004)
* Nadoja Award (2004)<ref>{{cite news |title=Nadoja Award for Kambar, five others |url=http://www.hindu.com/2003/12/16/stories/2003121605310400.htm |access-date=30 April 2024 |work=The Hindu |date=16 December 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050112105459/http://www.hindu.com/2003/12/16/stories/2003121605310400.htm |archive-date=12 January 2005}}</ref>
* [[Pampa Award]] (2004)
* [[Pampa Award]] (2004)
* [[Sant Kabir Award]] (2002)
* [[Sant Kabir Award]] (2002)
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His ''Saavirada Neralu'' won the "Ashan Award" (Kerala) as the best collection of poems in 1982. He won the K.V. Shankare Gowda Award for Theatre in 1990. He is the recipient of the [[Sangeet Natak Akademi]] Award, New Delhi,<ref name="hindu" /> for playwrighting in the year 1983 and the [[Sahitya Akademi Award]], New Delhi, for the play ''Siri Sampige'' in 1991.<ref name="award">{{cite web|url=http://www.kar.nic.in/kla/mlc'list/Sri%20Chandrashekar%20B.htm|title=Sri Chandrashekar B. Kambar|work=Official website of Karnataka legislature|publisher=National informatics center|access-date=2007-07-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090410040123/http://www.kar.nic.in/kla/mlc'list/Sri%20Chandrashekar%20B.htm|archive-date=10 April 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref>
His ''Saavirada Neralu'' won the "Ashan Award" (Kerala) as the best collection of poems in 1982. He won the K.V. Shankare Gowda Award for Theatre in 1990. He is the recipient of the [[Sangeet Natak Akademi]] Award, New Delhi,<ref name="hindu" /> for playwrighting in the year 1983 and the [[Sahitya Akademi Award]], New Delhi, for the play ''Siri Sampige'' in 1991.<ref name="award">{{cite web|url=http://www.kar.nic.in/kla/mlc'list/Sri%20Chandrashekar%20B.htm|title=Sri Chandrashekar B. Kambar|work=Official website of Karnataka legislature|publisher=National informatics center|access-date=2007-07-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090410040123/http://www.kar.nic.in/kla/mlc'list/Sri%20Chandrashekar%20B.htm|archive-date=10 April 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref>


Kambara received the eighth [[Jnanpith Award]] for the Kannada language, the highest literary honour conferred in India, in September 2011 for the year 2010.<ref name="jnan1">{{cite web|author=Prasad |url=http://thatskannada.oneindia.in/news/2011/09/19/jnanapeetha-award-to-chandrashekhar-kambar-aid0038.html |title=ಡಾ. ಚಂದ್ರಶೇಖರ ಕಂಬಾರರಿಗೆ ಜ್ಞಾನಪೀಠ ಪ್ರಶಸ್ತಿ |publisher=Thatskannada.oneindia.in |date=19 September 2011}}</ref> The prestigious award which was instituted in 1961, carries a cheque for {{INR}} 750,000, a citation and a bronze replica of goddess [[Saraswati|Vagdevi]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/192181/kannada-poet-playwright-kambar-gets.html |title=Kannada poet, playwright Kambar gets Jnanpith |work=Deccan Herald |date=20 September 2011}}</ref> The Chief Minister of Karnataka, [[D. V. Sadananda Gowda]] was among the many dignitaries who wished him well on the occasion of receiving this award.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sadanandagowda.com/news-events/cm-greeted-to-gnanapeeta-awardee-sri-chandra-shekar-kambara-in-bangalore/ |title=CM Greeted to Gnanapeeta Awardee Sri Chandra Shekar Kambara in Bangalore |publisher=Sadanandagowda.com |date=20 September 2011}}</ref> At a felicitation ceremony held a week after winning the award, the [[Government of Karnataka]] announced that it will reprint all works of Kambara, including his plays and make them available at all [[State school|government school]] libraries. His works will also be translated to different languages. A drama festival featuring his plays will be staged to honour the laureate.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/bangalore/report_karnataka-govt-to-popularise-kannada-litterateurs_1592190 |title=Karnataka govt to popularise Kannada litterateurs |publisher=DNA India |date=27 September 2011}}</ref>
Kambara received the eighth [[Jnanpith Award]] for the Kannada language, the highest literary honour conferred in India, in September 2011 for the year 2010.<ref name="jnan1">{{cite web |author=Prasad |url=https://kannada.oneindia.com/news/2011/09/19/jnanapeetha-award-to-chandrashekhar-kambar-aid0038.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716162138/http://thatskannada.oneindia.in/news/2011/09/19/jnanapeetha-award-to-chandrashekhar-kambar-aid0038.html |url-status=live |archive-date=16 July 2012 |title=ಡಾ. ಚಂದ್ರಶೇಖರ ಕಂಬಾರರಿಗೆ ಜ್ಞಾನಪೀಠ ಪ್ರಶಸ್ತಿ |publisher=Oneindia |date=19 September 2011 }}</ref> The prestigious award which was instituted in 1961, carries a cheque for {{INR}} 750,000, a citation and a bronze replica of goddess [[Saraswati|Vagdevi]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/192181/kannada-poet-playwright-kambar-gets.html |title=Kannada poet, playwright Kambar gets Jnanpith |work=Deccan Herald |date=20 September 2011}}</ref> The Chief Minister of Karnataka, [[D. V. Sadananda Gowda]] was among the many dignitaries who wished him well on the occasion of receiving this award.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sadanandagowda.com/news-events/cm-greeted-to-gnanapeeta-awardee-sri-chandra-shekar-kambara-in-bangalore/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925155713/http://sadanandagowda.com/news-events/cm-greeted-to-gnanapeeta-awardee-sri-chandra-shekar-kambara-in-bangalore/ |url-status=usurped |archive-date=25 September 2011 |title=CM Greeted to Gnanapeeta Awardee Sri Chandra Shekar Kambara in Bangalore |publisher=Sadanandagowda.com |date=20 September 2011}}</ref> At a felicitation ceremony held a week after winning the award, the [[Government of Karnataka]] announced that it will reprint all works of Kambara, including his plays and make them available at all [[State school|government school]] libraries. His works will also be translated to different languages. A drama festival featuring his plays will be staged to honour the laureate.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/bangalore/report_karnataka-govt-to-popularise-kannada-litterateurs_1592190 |title=Karnataka govt to popularise Kannada litterateurs |publisher=DNA India |date=27 September 2011}}</ref>


==List of works==
==List of works==
His rich contribution to Kannada literature in the field of poetry, plays, novels and stories, and on his research and political perceptions are listed below.<ref name=Award/>
His contribution to Kannada literature in the field of poetry, plays, novels and stories, and on his research and political perceptions are listed below.<ref name=Award/>


=== Poetry===
=== Poetry===
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* ''Siri Sampige'' ([[Sahitya Akademi Award]], 1991)
* ''Siri Sampige'' ([[Sahitya Akademi Award]], 1991)
* ''Huliya Neralu'' (Filmed) – 1980
* ''Huliya Neralu'' (Filmed) – 1980
* ''Tirukana Kanasu'' – 1989
* ''Pushpa Rani'' – 1990
* ''Boleshankara'' – 1991
* ''Boleshankara'' – 1991
* ''Pushpa Rani'' – 1990
* ''Tirukana Kanasu'' – 1989
* ''Mahamayi'' – 1999 (Translated into English by NSD, New Delhi in 2000 and Hindi)
* ''Mahamayi'' – 1999 (Translated into English by NSD, New Delhi in 2000 and Hindi)
* ''Nela Sampige'' – 2004 (Collection of Plays published by Kannada Pustaka Pradhikara, Government of Karnataka)
* ''Nela Sampige'' – 2004 (Collection of Plays published by Kannada Pustaka Pradhikara, Government of Karnataka)
* ''Jakkana'' – 2008
* ''Jakkana'' – 2008
* ''Shivaratri'' – 2011<ref>{{cite web|url=http://newindianexpress.com/cities/bangalore/article430464.ece |title=Play set in the Basavanna era |publisher=Express Buzz }}</ref>
* ''Shivaratri'' – 2011<ref>{{cite web |title=Play set in the Basavanna era |url=http://newindianexpress.com/cities/bangalore/article430464.ece |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130629233640/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/bangalore/article430464.ece |url-status=dead |archive-date=29 June 2013 |website=NewIndianExpress |publisher=}}</ref>
* Maarikadu
* Maarikadu


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{{commons category|Chandrashekhara Kambara}}
{{commons category|Chandrashekhara Kambara}}
* [http://www.deccanherald.com/content/195008/living-bard.html ''Deccan Herald''{{'}}s comprehensive coverage on Dr. Kambara]
* [http://www.deccanherald.com/content/195008/living-bard.html ''Deccan Herald''{{'}}s comprehensive coverage on Dr. Kambara]
{{PadmaBhushanAwardRecipients 2020–2029}}
{{PadmaBhushanAwardRecipients 2020–2029}}
{{Padma Shri Award Recipients in Literature & Education}}
{{Padma Shri Award Recipients in Literature & Education}}
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{{Gangadhar National Award For Poetry}}
{{Gangadhar National Award For Poetry}}
{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kambara, Chandrashekhara}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kambara, Chandrashekhara}}
[[Category:1937 births]]
[[Category:1937 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Jnanpith Award]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Jnanpith Award]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Padma Shri in literature & education]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Sahitya Akademi Award in Kannada]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Sahitya Akademi Award in Kannada]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Gangadhar National Award]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Gangadhar National Award]]
[[Category:Karnataka State Film Award winners]]
[[Category:Screenwriters from Karnataka]]
[[Category:Screenwriters from Karnataka]]
[[Category:Kannada dramatists and playwrights]]
[[Category:Kannada dramatists and playwrights]]
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[[Category:University of Chicago faculty]]
[[Category:University of Chicago faculty]]
[[Category:Karnatak University alumni]]
[[Category:Karnatak University alumni]]
[[Category:Bangalore University faculty]]
[[Category:Academic staff of Bangalore University]]
[[Category:Indian male poets]]
[[Category:Indian male poets]]
[[Category:Indian male novelists]]
[[Category:Indian male novelists]]
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[[Category:Novelists from Karnataka]]
[[Category:Novelists from Karnataka]]
[[Category:20th-century Indian male writers]]
[[Category:20th-century Indian male writers]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship]]

Latest revision as of 19:25, 11 February 2026


Chandrashekhara Kambara
Kambara during a talk about "Kannada in Technology" in Bangalore, 2013
Kambara during a talk about "Kannada in Technology" in Bangalore, 2013
Born (1937-01-02) 2 January 1937 (age 89)
Ghodageri, Belagavi, Bombay Presidency, British India (Present day Karnataka, India)
Occupation
Poet
Alma materPhD from Karnataka University, Dharwad[1]
Period1937–present
GenreFiction
Notable awardsJnanpith Award
Sahitya Akademi Award
Padma Shri
Pampa Award
Padma Bhushan
SpouseSatyabhama
Children4

Chandrashekhara Basavanneppa Kambara (born 2 January 1937) is a prominent Indian poet, playwright, folklorist, film director in Kannada language and the founder-vice-chancellor of Kannada University in Hampi also president of the Sahitya Akademi, country's premier literary institution, after Vinayak Krishna Gokak (1983) and U.R. Ananthamurthy (1993).[2] He is known for effective adaptation of the North Karnataka dialect of the Kannada language in his plays, and poems, in a similar style as in the works of D.R. Bendre.[3]

Kambara's plays mainly revolve around folk or mythology interlinked with contemporary issues,[4] inculcating modern lifestyle with his hard-hitting poems. He has become a pioneer of such literature.[5] His contribution as a playwright is significant not only to Kannada theatre but also to the Indian theatre in general as he achieved a blend of the folk and the modern theatrical forms.[6]

He has been conferred with many prestigious awards including the Padma Bhushan in 2021,[7][8] Jnanpith Award in 2011 for the year 2010,[9] Sahitya Akademi Award, the Padma Shri by Government of India,[10] Kabir Samman, Kalidas Samman and Pampa Award. After his retirement, Kambara was nominated as the Member of Karnataka Legislative Council, to which he made significant contributions through his interventions.[11]

Early life[edit | edit source]

Chandrashekhara Kambara was born in kannada-speaking family in Ghodageri, a village in Belgaum district of Bombay Presidency (today in Karnataka). He was the third son in the family, with brothers Parasappa and Yallappa who still reside in the small house belonging to the Kambara family in the village.[5] From an early age, Kambara was interested in folk arts, local culture and ritual.[1] His favorite Kannada writers include Kumara Vyasa, Basava, Kuvempu and Gopalakrishna Adiga and among English writers, it is W. B. Yeats, William Shakespeare and Federico García Lorca.[12]

Popularly known as Shivapur Kambar Master in his native district, Kambara had his schooling in Gokak and returned to Belagavi for higher education at Lingaraj College. Owing to poverty, he had to drop out of school[12] but Jagadguru Siddaram Swamiji of Savalagi Matha blessed Kambara and took care of all his primary and high school educational expenses which is why Kambara honours the seer in many of his writings.[5] After his post-graduation, he did his PhD thesis on Uttara Karnatakada Janapad Rangbhumi ("The Folk Theatre of North Karnataka") from Karnataka University, Dharwad.[13]

Career[edit | edit source]

After a brief stint in teaching in the University of Chicago, he taught in Bangalore University for over two decades and was a Fulbright scholar.[1]

He has been elected as the chairman of Sahitya Academy on 12 February 2018.

He served as the chairman of National School of Drama Society, New Delhi from 1996 to 2000 and as the president of Karnataka Nataka Academy from 1980 to 1983. He started using north Karnataka dialect of Kannada in his poems and plays which is not very common in Kannada literature.

Kambara is the founder vice-chancellor of the Kannada University at Hampi. His grand vision of Kannada literature and Karnataka culture is reflected in the way he showed commitment to build it. The architecture, the choice of the subjects that cover the diverse variety of culture and society of Karnataka, selection of place, faculty or academic activities, the scholars whom he drafted from different parts of the state and the Nadoja honorary award instead of the honorary doctorate which he introduced, show Kambara's native vision which was evolved in his literary works for decades.[6]

As the first vice-chancellor of the University, Kambara served two terms of three years each, during which he could shape it in a unique manner, compared to other traditional universities. All the constructions during his tenure as the vice-chancellor are on hillocks, with huge stone structures resembling the Vijayanagara period architecture. He also created a separate publication unit for publishing the results of research and project works going on in Kannada University.[14]

He is a strong supporter of imparting school education with Kannada language as the medium of instruction.[15] His justification for this stance is that only mother tongue can provide an "experience," which is an integral part of learning and learning through any other language only gives people "information," which makes them less competent.[16] This concurs with UNESCO's recommendation that "providing education in a child's mother tongue is a critical issue."[17]

Works[edit | edit source]

Kambara has to his credit 25 plays, 11 anthologies of poems, 5 novels, 16 research works and several scholarly write-ups on folk theatre, literature and education.[1] Some of his popular plays include "Jokumaraswamy", "Jayasidnayaka", "Kadu Kudure", "Nayi Kathe", "Mahamayi", "Harakeya Kuri" and others. He was conferred with the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1991 for another popular play Sirisampige.[18]

He was a pioneer in introducing Bailahongal's famous Sangya Balya (bayalata) and Jokumaraswamy, a traditional ritual of his native district, to the literary world[1] which have seen thousands of performances, not only in Kannada, but several other Indian languages as well.[19] His most recent novel, Shikhar Soorya, is rated among the best Kannada novels.[13]

Many of his works have been translated to English and several other Indian languages. The play Jokumaraswamy has been translated to English (Seagull Books, Calcutta in 1989), Marathi (Abholi Prakashan, Solhapur in 2000), Hindi (Vidya Prakashan Mandir, New Delhi in 1985), Telugu (Mudrika Printers, Kurnool in 1993), Tamil, Punjabi and Malayalam among others. The Sahitya Akademi Award-winning play Sirisampige has been translated to English (Seagull Books)[20] and to Tamil, Hindi, Marathi and Rajasthani by the Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi. His novel "Singarevva Mattu Aramane" translated as Kulothe Chingaramma, to Malayalam by C Raghavan, is one of his works that has become popular in Kerala.[21]

Apart from his literary career, Kambara has been associated with direction of feature films. His directorial work in many movies on the plays scripted by him; he has directed films such as Karimayi, Sangeeta and Kadu Kudare. Jeeke Maastara Pranaya Prasanga. Two of his plays which have been made into television series. His contributions include many documentaries for the Government of Karnataka and Government of India.[3] His "Kaadu Kudure" entered into the Indian Panorama and won the National Award. His film "Sangeeta" won the Best Feature Film State Award in the year 1981. He has also adopted his play G.K. Maastarara Pranaya Prasanga for television.

Besides his voluminous works, Kambar has presented papers on Indian Folklore and theatre in the University of Chicago, American Oriental Centre, New York, International Theatre Institute – Berlin, Moscow, and Jade: Akita Japan and many universities and cultural organizations in India. The Folklore Dictionary he compiled for Kannada Sahitya Parishad is a monumental work.

Themes[edit | edit source]

In his lengthy narrative poem Helatena Kela ("Listen, I will tell you") in the early 1960s, Kambara introduced some of the recurring themes which he would often return to in his later works. Themes of tradition and modernity, crises of feudalism, native identities, colonialism, march of history, sex, loss of faith, the death of God and several related themes explored later in his plays, novels and poetry had found metaphorical expression in the narrative poem.[6] The eponymous, long narrative poem has the musicality and rhythm of the Lavani form and uses rich earthy imagery.[22]

Shivapura is an imaginary utopian village which continues to be a character, a metaphor and the locale in most of his works. It forms the locus of his poems and tales.[23] In his characterisation, Lord Shiva and Parvati visit the place and bless the villagers. Even Rama, when he was going to Sri Lanka in search of Sita, visits the village en route.[13]

Filmography[edit | edit source]

  • Karimaayi (1975) (director)
  • Kaadu Kudure (1979) (director)
  • Sangeeta (1980) (director)
  • G.K. Maastarara Pranaya Prasanga (1986) (television)
  • Rishyashringa (1970)
  • Huliya Neralu (1980)
  • Singaaravva (1982) (writer)
  • Harakeya Kuri (1983) (writer)

Awards and honours[edit | edit source]

Central awards[edit | edit source]

State awards[edit | edit source]

Five of his books have been awarded by the Karnataka Sahitya Academy. His well-known play Jokumaraswamy has won the "Kamaladevi Chattopadhyaya Award" of Natya Sangh as the "Best Play of the Year" in India in the year 1975. Another popular play Jaisidanayaka won the Vardhamaana Prashasti as the "Best Book of the Year" – 1975 in Karnataka.

His Saavirada Neralu won the "Ashan Award" (Kerala) as the best collection of poems in 1982. He won the K.V. Shankare Gowda Award for Theatre in 1990. He is the recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, New Delhi,[19] for playwrighting in the year 1983 and the Sahitya Akademi Award, New Delhi, for the play Siri Sampige in 1991.[27]

Kambara received the eighth Jnanpith Award for the Kannada language, the highest literary honour conferred in India, in September 2011 for the year 2010.[18] The prestigious award which was instituted in 1961, carries a cheque for ₹ 750,000, a citation and a bronze replica of goddess Vagdevi.[28] The Chief Minister of Karnataka, D. V. Sadananda Gowda was among the many dignitaries who wished him well on the occasion of receiving this award.[29] At a felicitation ceremony held a week after winning the award, the Government of Karnataka announced that it will reprint all works of Kambara, including his plays and make them available at all government school libraries. His works will also be translated to different languages. A drama festival featuring his plays will be staged to honour the laureate.[30]

List of works[edit | edit source]

His contribution to Kannada literature in the field of poetry, plays, novels and stories, and on his research and political perceptions are listed below.[3]

Poetry[edit | edit source]

  • Mugulu (1958)
  • Helatena Kela (1964)
  • Takararinavaru (1971) [Karnataka Sahitya Akademi Award for Poetry]
  • Saavirada Neralu (1979) [Ashan Award – 1982, Kerala]
  • Aayda Kavanagalu (1980)
  • Belli Meenu (1989)
  • Akkakku Haadugale (1993)
  • Eevaregina Helatena Kela (1993)
  • Chakori (1996) [Translated into English, 1999]
  • Rocks of Hampi (Collection of Poems Translated into English by O. L. Nagabhushana Swamy, 2004)
  • Ayda Kavitegalu (Akshara Prakashana, 2007)
  • Ellide Shivapura (2009)
  • Samagra Kavya (2018)

Plays[edit | edit source]

  • Bembattida Kannu – 1961
  • Narcissus – 1969
  • Rishyashringa (Filmed) – 1970
  • Jokumaraswamy – 1972
  • Chalesha — 1973 (translated to Hindi by Dakshina Bharath Hindi Prachar Sabha, Madras in 1973)
  • Sangya Balya Anabeko Naadolaga – 1975
  • Kittiya Kathe – 1974
  • Jasisidanayaka – 1975 (Translated to Hindi by Saraswathi Vihar, New Delhi in 1984 and English. State Academy of Literature Award and "Vardhamana Prashasti" as the Best Book of the Year in Kannada)
  • Alibaba – 1980 (translated and published in Indian Literature, Sahitya Academy)
  • Kaadu Kudure – 1979 (Filmed and received National Award)
  • Naayi Kathe – 1980 (Filmed as Sangeeta and received 5 Karnataka State Film Awards)
  • Kharokhara – 1977
  • Mathanthara – 1978
  • Harakeya Kuri – 1983 (Filmed and received National Award, translated into Hindi by Gyan Bharathi, New Delhi in 1989)
  • Kambara Avara Natakagalu – 1984
  • Sambashiva Prahasana – 1987 (Translated into Hindi, English by Seagull Books, Calcutta in 1991 and Tamil)
  • Siri Sampige (Sahitya Akademi Award, 1991)
  • Huliya Neralu (Filmed) – 1980
  • Tirukana Kanasu – 1989
  • Pushpa Rani – 1990
  • Boleshankara – 1991
  • Mahamayi – 1999 (Translated into English by NSD, New Delhi in 2000 and Hindi)
  • Nela Sampige – 2004 (Collection of Plays published by Kannada Pustaka Pradhikara, Government of Karnataka)
  • Jakkana – 2008
  • Shivaratri – 2011[31]
  • Maarikadu

Novels[edit | edit source]

  • Anna Tangi – 1956
  • Karimaayi – 1975 (Filmed)
  • G.K. Maastarara Pranaya Prasanga – 1986 (filmed for Doordarshan, translated to Hindi by Vidya Prakashan Mandir, New Delhi)
  • Singarevva Mattu Aramane – 1982 (State Academy of Literature Award, translated to English by Katha Books, New Delhi in 2002, Hindi by Radhakrishna Prakashan, New Delhi in 1984 and to Malayalam by DC Books, Kottayam in 1999 as Kulothe Chingaramma) (Filmed by T. S. Nagabharana)
  • Shikhara Soorya – 2007 (published by Akshara Prakashana and second edition by Ankita Pustaka)
  • Shivana Dangura - 2015

Research and critical perceptions[edit | edit source]

  • Uttara Karnataka Janapada Rangabhumi – 1980
  • Sangya Balya – 1966
  • Bannisi Hadavva Nana Balaga – 1968
  • Bayalaatagalu – 1973
  • Matado Lingave – 1973
  • Namma Janapada – 1980
  • Bandire Nanna Jayolage – 1981
  • Kannada Folklore Dictionary (2 volumes) – 1985
  • Bedara Huduga Mattu Gilli – 1989 (State Academy of Literature Award)
  • Lakshapathi Rajana Kathe – 1986
  • Kasigondu Seru – 1989
  • Nelada Mareya Nidhana – 1993
  • Brihaddesiya Chintana – 2001
  • An Anthology of Modern India Plays for the National School of Drama – 2000
  • Desheeya Chintana – 2004 (collection of articles on culture and literature. Published by Ankita Pustaka)
  • Tudi Irada Daari - 2009
  • Marave Marmarave – 2007
  • Idu Desi – 2010
  • Smit - 1968

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 "Jnanpith award: Deccan Herald – Kambar realised the universal in indigenous, native culture in modern times". Deccan Herald. 20 September 2011.
  2. ↑ "Giri Seeme: The Tribal Village". Department of Tribal Studies, Kannada University. Kannada University, Hampi. Archived from the original on 29 September 2007. Retrieved 11 July 2007.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 "Senior Kannada Writer Dr Chandrashekhara Kambara gets Jnanpith Award, 8th for Kannada Language". Samvada. 19 September 2011. Archived from the original on 25 September 2011.
  4. ↑ "IBN Live – Kambar does Karnataka proud with Jnanpith". Ibnlive.in.com. 20 September 2011. Archived from the original on 17 October 2012. Retrieved 20 September 2011.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 "Home village Ghodageri erupts in celebration". The Times of India. 20 September 2011. Archived from the original on 18 April 2012.
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 The Hindu – Speaking from Shivapura Archived 25 September 2011 at the Wayback Machine
  7. ↑ "Padma Awards 2021 announced". Ministry of Home Affairs. Retrieved 26 January 2021.
  8. ↑ "Shinzo Abe, Tarun Gogoi, Ram Vilas Paswan among Padma Award winners: Complete list". The Times of India. 25 January 2021. Retrieved 25 January 2021.
  9. ↑ "Jnanpith for Kambar". The Hindu. Chennai, India. 20 September 2011.
  10. ↑ "Padma Awards" (PDF). Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. 2015. Archived from the original (PDF) on 15 October 2015. Retrieved 21 July 2015.
  11. ↑ "The living bard". Deccan Herald. October 2011.
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 SEETHALAKSHMI S (21 September 2011). "Times of India – Kambar's next is a comedy on thieves". The Times of India.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 13.2 "The New Indian Express – Eighth moment of glory for Kannada". Ibnlive.in.com. 21 September 2011. Archived from the original on 17 October 2012.
  14. ↑ A Murigeppa (21 September 2011). "Times of India – Kannada varsity has Kambar stamp all over". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 6 November 2012.
  15. ↑ "Nationalise school-level education, says Kambara". Deccan Chronicle. Archived from the original on 21 January 2016. Retrieved 23 September 2011.
  16. ↑ "Kambar bats for Kannada in schools". Deccan Herald. 24 September 2011.
  17. ↑ "Results of the 7th consultation of member states on the implementation of the Convention and Recommendation against discrimination in education (Para. 41)" (PDF).
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 Prasad (19 September 2011). "ಡಾ. ಚಂದ್ರಶೇಖರ ಕಂಬಾರರಿಗೆ ಜ್ಞಾನಪೀಠ ಪ್ರಶಸ್ತಿ". Oneindia.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)
  19. ↑ 19.0 19.1 Special Correspondent (20 September 2011). "Jnanpith for Kambar". The Hindu. {{cite web}}: |author= has generic name (help)
  20. ↑ Modern Indian Drama, ed. G.P. Deshpande, Sahitya Akademi, 2004]
  21. ↑ Gayathri Sasibhooshan (21 September 2011). "Times of India – Kambar deserves Jnanpith: M Leelavathy". The Times of India.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)
  22. ↑ Frontline Magazine – Modern myth-maker [dead link]
  23. ↑ "Times of India – Shivapur, his magical world". The Times of India. 21 September 2011. Archived from the original on 28 September 2012.
  24. ↑ "Shinzo Abe, Tarun Gogoi, Ram Vilas Paswan among Padma Award winners: Complete list - Times of India". The Times of India.
  25. ↑ "കടമ്മനിട്ട പുരസ്‌കാരം ചന്ദ്രശേഖര കമ്പാറിന് സമ്മാനിച്ചു" Archived 3 June 2020 at the Wayback Machine. Mathrubhumi. 1 April 2018. Retrieved 3 June 2020.
  26. ↑ "Nadoja Award for Kambar, five others". The Hindu. 16 December 2003. Archived from the original on 12 January 2005. Retrieved 30 April 2024.
  27. ↑ "Sri Chandrashekar B. Kambar". Official website of Karnataka legislature. National informatics center. Archived from the original on 10 April 2009. Retrieved 11 July 2007.
  28. ↑ "Kannada poet, playwright Kambar gets Jnanpith". Deccan Herald. 20 September 2011.
  29. ↑ "CM Greeted to Gnanapeeta Awardee Sri Chandra Shekar Kambara in Bangalore". Sadanandagowda.com. 20 September 2011. Archived from the original on 25 September 2011.
  30. ↑ "Karnataka govt to popularise Kannada litterateurs". DNA India. 27 September 2011.
  31. ↑ "Play set in the Basavanna era". NewIndianExpress.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)

External links[edit | edit source]

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