Author Name:
ಡಾ. ಯು.ಆರ್. ಅನಂತಮೂರ್ತಿ (Dr. U. R. Ananthamurthy)
Publication Date:
1965
Summary:
Samskara is a landmark novel in modern Kannada literature and a defining work of the Navya (modernist) literary movement. Set in the village of Durvasapura, the story revolves around the sudden death of Naranappa, a defiant Brahmin who abandoned traditional norms to embrace a hedonistic lifestyle. His death creates a moral and spiritual crisis within the community—no one wants to perform his last rites due to his impiety.
The central character, Praneshacharya, a revered and orthodox scholar, is torn between his dharma (religious duty) and emerging existential doubts. His journey, both literal and internal, forms the crux of the narrative as he grapples with moral ambiguity, desire, and human vulnerability.
Through stark imagery and symbolic storytelling, Ananthamurthy critiques caste hierarchies, questions blind ritualism, and paints a deeply personal struggle of faith versus freedom. The novel’s philosophical depth makes it both timeless and urgent.
Awards & Recognition:
- Widely considered a pioneer work of modern Kannada fiction
- Adapted into an acclaimed film (1970) by Pattabhi Rama Reddy, which won National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Kannada
- Contributed to U. R. Ananthamurthy receiving the Jnanpith Award (1994)
- Translated into multiple Indian and international languages, including English, French, and German
Other Notable Works by U. R. Ananthamurthy:
- ಭವ (Bhava)
- ಆವಾಹನ (Avahana)
- ಭಾರತಿಪುರ (Bharathipura)
- ಸ್ವಾತಂತ್ರ್ಯ (Swaatantrya)
- ಸೂಡನಾ ಕನಸು (Sooryana Kanasa)
Why This Book Matters:
Samskara is more than a novel—it’s a mirror held up to traditional Indian society. For readers and learners of Kannada, it offers:
- A rich literary experience blending simple language with profound meaning
- Exposure to Navya literary style, which shaped modern Kannada thought
- A gateway into philosophical and cultural debates central to Karnataka’s heritage
It’s a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the soul of Kannada literature and the evolution of progressive Indian thought through fiction.
Stay tuned as we explore more iconic Kannada books in this series, only on kannadamathadi.com—your gateway to learning Kannada through its literary treasures.
ನಮಸ್ಕಾರ ಮತ್ತು ಧನ್ಯವಾದಗಳು!
Namaskara mattu Dhanyavaadagalu!
(Hello and Thank you!)