Hulakoti
Kuvempu’s play Smashana Kurukshetra remains relevant in the present-day context as it highlights the suffering, destruction and loss of human values caused by war, said Dr. Bhimesha Yaradoni.
A special lecture titled “Kuvempu’s Play Smashana Kurukshetra: Post-War Horrors and Contemporary Challenges” was organised at Sri K. H. Patil Government First Grade College, Hulakoti, by the Department of Kannada under the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC).
Resource person Dr. Bhimesha Yaradoni said the end of a war should not be viewed only in terms of victory or defeat. The real consequences are seen in the death, suffering, destruction, broken relationships and loss of human values that follow. He said Kuvempu’s work raises important questions about the human cost of conflict and conveys the importance of peace, coexistence and humanitarian values.
He also discussed the relevance of the play in the context of conflicts, violence and social challenges faced by the world. He urged students to examine literature critically and connect literary themes with contemporary social realities.
Presiding over the programme, Principal Dr. Appanna Hanje said Smashana Kurukshetra effectively portrays the realities that emerge after war rather than concentrating only on its outcome. He said such academic programmes help develop critical thinking, sensitivity and social awareness among students.
Kannada Department Head Ramesh Hulakunda explained the objectives of the programme and highlighted the importance of humanity, anti-war values and social responsibility in Kuvempu’s writings. Assistant Professor Bhimesha said literature is not merely a form of entertainment but an important medium for reflecting social issues and promoting human values.
The programme gave students an opportunity to discuss the impact of war and the need for peace through the themes of the play. Kannada lecturer Dr. Sujatha Baradur compered the event, while Dr. Kirankumar Rayara proposed the vote of thanks.
Kannada lecturer Dr. Basappa Gattennavar, Commerce Department Head Dr. Lakshman Mulgund, Professor Dr. Shrisha Vithala, Economics Department Head Mahantesh, other teaching and non-teaching staff and a large number of students attended the programme.