T. S. Venkannayya was University of Mysore's first Kannada Professor. He was responsible for nurturing such future literary giants as K. V. Puttappa, D. L. Narasimhachar, M. V. Seetharamaiah, G. Venkatasubbiah and S. V. Parameshwara Bhatta. He was the very life of Maharaja's College 'Common Room.' He was instrumental in laying the foundations for University of Mysore's 'Prasaranga', Maharaja's College 'Karnataka Sangha' and Central College 'Karnataka Sangha.' Under his able guidance, 'Prabhuddha Karnataka' took shape and gave voice to many a future Kannada littérateur. Known for his over-arching generosity (often at his own detriment) and sweet, affable demeanour, this tall man was literally the big brother of Kannada Literary Pantheon. This is our small tribute to his memory. —Ed
By Dr. Bhagirath S. Naganath
