Exploring Kannada Poetry on Fatherhood: A Lack or an Unnoticed Treasure?

The rich tradition of Kannada poetry has unsurprisingly seen profound explorations of familial bonds, including the intricate relationship between a father and child. However, a closer look at the canon reveals an interesting paradox: while there are numerous celebrated works that touch upon familial bonds, including those with fathers, there seems to be a noticeable scarcity of poems dedicated solely to the father.

Notable Poets and Their Works on Fatherhood

Kuvempu is one of the most celebrated Kannada poets, known for his deep reflections on familial bonds, including those with fathers. His poetry often delves into these themes, capturing the essence of parental love and sacrifice. Similarly, G. S. Shivarudrappa#39;s works often explore personal and emotional themes, with some poems that delve into the father-son relationship.

B. M. Srikantaiah is recognized for his poignant verses, which honor the sacrifices and love of fathers. D. R. Bendre, another significant poet, celebrates the simplicity of life and the bonds formed within it, including those with the father. V. K. Gokak, a contemporary poet, addresses themes of respect and love for parental figures, further enriching the space for fatherhood in Kannada poetry.

Modern Context and Contemporary Poets

While traditional and classical Kannada poetry has predominantly focused on the deep and multifaceted relationships within families, there are contemporary poets who address fatherhood in modern contexts. These poets often offer fresh perspectives on the evolving dynamics of the father-child relationship. However, finding specific poems on this theme might require some digging.

An Inquiry and Later Disappointment

Upon learning of the scarcity of father-focused poems, a deeper search began. After extensive research, no specific poems came to light, except for a notable work by Raju Ananthswamy, who wrote about his father. Surprisingly, even this poem does not fully encapsulate the fatherly essence. Other than that, there are films and songs that hint at the father figure but do not completely attribute the poem to the father.

Indications of Fatherhood in Indirect Forms

While direct poems on fathers may be few, there are other poetic forms that indirectly capture the essence of fatherhood. Songs like ldquo;Thayi Thandeya Seveya Yoga Barebarade Begaraserdquo; and ldquo;Thayi Thandeya Mamathe Vatslya Yaava Devaru Needaballardquo; offer glimpses into the father-son relationship. Similarly, ldquo;Appana Jebina Duddugalellardquo; from Kannada films and ldquo;Ninnolume Namagirali Thande Kodidu Neene Nadesu Munde;rdquo; ldquo;Appa I Love You Pardquo; and ldquo;Ninnantha Appa Illa,rdquo; hint at the paternal presence but do not fully dedicate the poem to the father.

Conclusion and Further Exploration

While there may be some poems written on fathers that are not widely publicized, it is possible that these works exist in smaller circles or in less well-known publications. Additionally, there is a possibility that some poems about fathers have been published in local newspapers or other less visible platforms, particularly during Fathers Day celebrations.