In a notable oversight, the Kalyan Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KKRTC) has come under intense scrutiny for mistakenly using a portrait of living author Chandrakanta Vaddu in place of the late storyteller Rajasekhara Niramanvi during a photo exhibition held at the Central Bus Stand. This exhibition was part of the Kalyan Karnataka Utsav, celebrating a ‘Decade Celebration’ aimed at highlighting notable professionals and tourist attractions from the region.
The controversy surfaced when it became clear that the portrait of Rajasekhara Niramanvi—a revered figure in the local literary community who passed away just last month—was conspicuously absent from the exhibition. Rajasekhara, a distinguished Sahitya Akademi and Rajyotsava awardee, is celebrated as one of the region’s greatest storytellers, making the omission particularly egregious in the eyes of many.
Chandrakanta Vaddu, whose image was mistakenly displayed, expressed his dismay over the incident, stating, “This is an insult to Rajasekhara.” His comments echo the sentiments of a broader literary community and public that has voiced their outrage over what they perceive as a disrespectful oversight. Many have called for a greater understanding and appreciation of the region’s cultural and literary figures, emphasizing the need for proper recognition of their contributions.
The backlash against the KKRTC not only highlights a significant error in the presentation of local cultural heritage but also serves as a poignant reminder of the responsibilities that come with public commemorations. Honoring the legacies of local artists and authors is crucial for fostering a sense of identity and pride within the community. The absence of Rajasekhara’s portrait in a celebratory exhibition aimed at recognizing notable figures has sparked discussions about the broader implications of such oversights.
As the KKRTC grapples with the fallout from this incident, it underscores the importance of diligence and respect in the portrayal of cultural icons. The organization will need to take steps to address the concerns raised and ensure that future exhibitions accurately reflect the rich tapestry of local history and artistry.
As the situation develops, the public and literary community will be closely watching how the KKRTC responds to this misstep. There is a clear expectation for the organization to take accountability and rectify the oversight, ensuring that the contributions of figures like Rajasekhara Niramanvi are properly acknowledged in future events.
This incident not only serves as a cautionary tale for event organizers but also as an opportunity for greater engagement with the community’s rich literary heritage, fostering an environment where local artists are celebrated and their legacies respected.