Jameel Sawanna, representing Bengaluru-based Sawanna Prakashana, addressed the dynamic shifts in Kannada language usage and the resilience of its publishing industry during a panel discussion at the Mysuru Literature Festival.
Highlighting the enduring appeal of Kannada literature, Sawanna pointed out the robust sales and royalties earned by prominent authors like Dr. S. L. Bhyrappa and Mookanahalli Rangaswamy. Rangaswamy’s books, including ‘Share Market’, ‘Sirivantanige Sarala Sootragalu,’ and ‘Hana Hani,’ have garnered significant royalties, reflecting a strong readership base aligned with their preferences. Sawanna emphasized the crucial role of readers in supporting publishers through book purchases, urging proactive marketing strategies to sustain book sales amidst changing language trends.
Ningaraju Chittannavar of Chintana Chittara Prakashana, a newcomer in the industry, emphasized the integral role of publishing in preserving cultural narratives. He highlighted his extensive efforts in organizing 97 book-reading programs statewide, underscoring the publisher’s responsibility in documenting diverse human experiences.
Abhiruchi Ganesh from Abhiruchi Prakashana discussed the enduring popularity of reprints by literary giants like Kuvempu, Poornachandra Tejasvi, and Devanur Mahadeva, demonstrating their timeless relevance even decades after initial publication.
The discussion underscored the Kannada publishing industry’s adaptability and its ongoing efforts to cater to diverse reader interests while preserving cultural heritage.
