The Kannada literary world mourns the loss of Santeshivara Lingannaiah Bhyrappa (S.L. Bhyrappa), a celebrated novelist, philosopher, and thinker, who passed away this afternoon in Bengaluru due to a cardiac arrest at 2:38 pm, as confirmed by Rashtrotthana Hospital. He was 94 years old.
Bhyrappa had been residing in Bengaluru for the past year after leading a retired life in Mysuru. Prior to his hospitalization, he had been suffering from minor age-related ailments.
S.L. Bhyrappa’s literary journey began with his debut novel Bheemakaya, published in 1958. Over a career spanning more than five decades, he authored 24 novels, with his works encompassing philosophy, aesthetics, and humanitarian themes that captured the imagination of generations of readers. His notable novels include Vamshavruksha, Daatu, Tantu, Anchu, Parva, Grihabhanga, Sartha, Mandra, and Tabbaliyu Neenade Magane.
Several of his works, such as Vamshavruksha, Tabbaliyu Neenade Magane, Matadana, and Nayi Neralu, were adapted into critically acclaimed films. His novels have been translated into multiple Indian languages, including Hindi, Marathi, and English, earning him a pan-Indian readership.
PM Modi Condoles
PM Modi expressed that with the passing of Shri S.L. Bhyrappa Ji, the nation had lost a towering stalwart who had stirred people’s conscience and explored the soul of India. He was described as a fearless and timeless thinker who had profoundly enriched Kannada literature with his thought-provoking works. The speaker noted that Bhyrappa’s writings had inspired generations to reflect, question, and engage more deeply with society.
He added that Bhyrappa’s unwavering passion for India’s history and culture would continue to inspire minds for years to come and conveyed that his thoughts were with the family and admirers of the late author during this sad time, concluding with “Om Shanti.”
In the passing of Shri S.L. Bhyrappa Ji, we have lost a towering stalwart who stirred our conscience and delved deep into the soul of India. A fearless and timeless thinker, he profoundly enriched Kannada literature with his thought-provoking works. His writings inspired… pic.twitter.com/ZhXwLcCGP3
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 24, 2025
Celebrated Literary Achievements and Awards
Throughout his illustrious career, Bhyrappa received numerous accolades for his literary contributions:
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Padma Bhushan (2023): One of India’s highest civilian honors.
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Saraswati Samman (2010): For his celebrated novel Mandra.
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Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award (1975): For Daatu.
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Sahitya Akademi Fellowship (2015): The highest literary honor in India.
He also established the Dr. SL Bhyrappa Pratishthana (Regd.) to promote social causes and support literary and cultural development in his hometown and beyond.
Early Life and Legacy
Born on July 26, 1934, in Santeshivara village, Channarayapatna taluk, Hassan district, Bhyrappa emerged as one of the foremost voices in Kannada literature. His writings inspired young readers, making his novels often the first literary experience for many aspiring Kannada enthusiasts. In 2019, Bhyrappa was honored by being chosen to inaugurate the world-famous Mysuru Dasara festival, an event he described as a moment of immense pride. S.L. Bhyrappa was married and had two sons. He lived with his wife in Mysuru, where he spent his later years. Despite his fame, he maintained a relatively private personal life.
Net Worth
While exact figures are not publicly disclosed, S.L. Bhyrappa’s long and successful literary career, coupled with the adaptation of several of his works into films, suggests a comfortable financial standing. His books have been bestsellers, and his contributions to literature have been recognized with prestigious awards, indicating a significant impact both culturally and financially.
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