On the auspicious day of Vasanta Pañcamī, 14th February 2024, a day that heralds the onset of spring according to the Indian calendar and venerates Sarasvatī, the goddess of learning, we officially launched karṇāṭa: Centre for Classical Kannada. karṇāṭa—a term that has been extensively used in Sanskrit and Kannada literature—refers to the black soil of the region or melodies that are pleasant to the ear. 

The concept for the centre emerged from a deeply felt necessity for a concerted effort, distinct from the university framework, aimed at reviving and rejuvenating the rich heritage of classical Kannada. This need spurred a series of discussions among the three founding members: RVS Sundaram, Gil Ben-Herut, and Manish Maheshwari. Recognizing the collective strength and expertise within the Kannada scholarly community, we reached out to engage in meaningful dialogues, aiming to chart a course for the centre's foundational projects and long-term initiatives.

This initiative seeks to promote scholarship while making the tradition more accessible to a wider audience. By Classical Kannada, we refer to the pre-modern Kannada traditions, encompassing both its literary and material aspects. One of the focal points of our initiative is to strategically use technology to enhance the learning and dissemination of classical Kannada traditions.

To commemorate this significant occasion, the founding team visited the temple of ŚāradāDevī in Mysore, a form of goddess Sarasvatī revered for bestowing knowledge and wisdom. Originating from Kashmir, goddess Śāradā presence in Mysore symbolizes the pan-Indian reverence for learning and scholarship. Within the temple premises, we observed numerous young children, accompanied by their parents, being initiated into the world of Kannada through the ceremonial writing of their first letters.

We harbour the aspiration that this initiative will kindle a spark within these young minds, encouraging them to delve deeply into the world of classical traditions. By nurturing a generation that values and understands the depth of their literary and cultural roots, we anticipate the emergence of scholars, artists, and educators who will carry the torch of classical Kannada into the future.