Today, on September 8, we fondly remember the birthday of Kuppali Puttappa Poornachandra Tejaswi, a towering figure in Indian literature and a dedicated environmentalist.

Kuppali Puttappa Poornachandra Tejaswi, a name etched in the annals of Indian literature, was born on September 8, 1938, in the picturesque village of Kuppali, nestled in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. This multi-talented polymath was more than just a renowned writer and novelist in Kannada; he was also a proficient photographer, publisher, painter, naturalist, and environmentalist. His multifaceted talents and commitment to various fields left an indelible mark on the cultural and literary landscape of India.

Tejaswi was the son of the celebrated Kannada poet Kuvempu, but he was determined to carve his own unique niche in the world of art and letters. His literary journey began with poetry, but he soon transitioned to short stories, novels, and essays. His distinctive writing style not only set him apart but also heralded a new era in Kannada literature.

One of Tejaswi's early achievements was winning the Best Story Award in a competition hosted by the Prajavani Kannada newspaper during Deepavali. The winning story, titled "Linga Banda," offered readers a captivating glimpse of the rainy Western Ghats through the eyes of a young boy. It was an early indicator of his deep connection with nature and his remarkable ability to convey its essence through words.

After completing his education at the prestigious Maharaja College in Mysore, Tejaswi's passion for nature and farming led him to purchase a coffee estate in the Mudigere taluk of Chikmagalur District. This move allowed him to immerse himself in the natural beauty of the Western Ghats, further enriching his understanding of the environment.

Tejaswi's love for nature was not confined to his writings. He was an avid naturalist, always eager to explore the forests of the Western Ghats. His wanderings in these lush landscapes fueled his creativity and gave birth to some of his most compelling literary works.

In his extensive literary portfolio, Tejaswi dabbled in various forms of expression, including poetry, short stories, novels, travel literature, plays, and science fiction. However, the common thread running through his work was his unwavering connection to the natural world. Nature and its myriad incidents played pivotal roles in most of his literary creations.

Among his many works, "Karvalo" stands out as a masterpiece. This novel takes readers on a thrilling adventure as the author embarks on a quest to discover a flying lizard hidden within the dense forests of the Western Ghats. Through his vivid storytelling, Tejaswi not only entertained but also educated readers about the intricate wonders of the natural world.

Poornachandra Tejaswi's literary legacy endures, captivating readers across generations. His works continue to be popular, with numerous reprints and a perennial presence on readers' lists. His writings serve as a testament to his deep-rooted love for nature and his ability to weave its enchanting stories into the fabric of Kannada literature.

As we remember the birthday of this literary luminary and environmentalist, we celebrate not only his contributions to literature but also his enduring love for the environment. Poornachandra Tejaswi's life and work serve as an inspiration for all who seek to explore the beauty of nature through the written word, leaving an indomitable legacy that will continue to thrive in the hearts and minds of readers for generations to come.

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