Udupi: The approach to writing history has undergone a dramatic shift over the past four decades, with a growing emphasis on people-centric regional narratives, said noted archaeologist and researcher Dr. Pundikai Ganapathi Bhat. He was speaking at an award function on Saturday at the new Ravindra Mantapa in MGM College, organized jointly by the Rashtrakavi Govinda Pai Research Center and Manipal Academy of Higher Education.

Delivering insights during a session on “Oral Heritage and Tulu History,” Dr. Bhat emphasized that traditional historical records were deeply personal and politically motivated, often ignoring the contributions of women and common people. “For centuries, history celebrated royal loyalty while neglecting the everyday lives and struggles of people, especially women,” he noted.

He highlighted that oral traditions—particularly the Paddanas of Tulu Nadu—are now gaining recognition as vital sources for understanding regional culture, beliefs, and social dynamics. “These oral epics can reveal layers of community life long hidden from official records,” Dr. Bhat added.

The event also saw historian Dr. Malathi Krishnamurthy being conferred the “Polali Sheenappa Heggade and S.R. Hegde Award”, presented by scholar Dr. Padekallu Vishnubhat.

The ceremony was chaired by Prof. Vanitha Mayya, Principal of MGM Degree College.

Other dignitaries included:

  • Dr. B. Jagadish Shetty (Administrator, Research Center)

  • Dr. Indira Hegde (President, Chellaruguthu S.R. Hegde Trust)

  • Dr. Arun Kumar S.R. (Co-researcher and host of the event)