Mangalore: The birth centenary celebrations of renowned novelist Krishnamurthi Puranik  organized at the Government Teachers Training Institute Hall at Balmatta in Mangalore on August 17, Friday, was inaugurated by veteran scholar and Yakshagana  critic M Prabhaker Joshi.

In his address, Joshi  said late Puranik was known for his simple language which could be easily understood by any one. He also mentioned that Puranik was not just a novelist, but also a poet who had authored several articles. At the same time Joshi exhorted youngsters not to categorize or brand writers.

S. Pradeep Kumar Kalkura, President of Dakshina Kannada District Kannada Sahitya Parishat, presided over the function.

SL Shastri, veteran writer of Belgaum, who was present as a chief guest, said late Puranik was also a great teacher and pointed out  15 of his over 80 novels have been made into films. He also urged youngsters to cultivate the habit of reading. Shastri was honoured on the occasion.

Usha, Superintendent of Govt. T.T.I., Balmatta, Vijayalakshmi B. Shetty, President of Mangalore taluk unit of Kannada Sahitya Parishad, Mangalore taluk, were among others present on the occasion.