Obituary: G.S. Dikshit

G.S. Dikshit 1911-2004

Prof Girish Sridhar Dikshit (1911-2004) passed away in the afternoon of 26th June 04. He was 93.

Prof. Dikshit was born in a learned priestly family in Harihar on the banks of Tungabhadra on January 10, 1911. Harihar, as the name indicates has the famous temple of Harihareshwara which stands for the unity of Vaishnava and Shaiva sects. The temples have unique architecture and sculptures with symbols of both the sects artistically represented. In a way Dr. Dikshit was like the shrine of his native place, representing both sides of history, Western and Eastern. He taught and wrote on American and European history as well as Indian History and History of Karnataka.

Like youngsters of his generation, Dr. Dikshit had to struggle hard to complete his education from primary to university. With fewer colleges and even lesser teaching jobs available, he had to move to a very remote place Parlakimedi in Orissa. Later he moved to Willingdon College, Sangli (in Maharashtra) run by Deccan Education Society founded by Lokamanya Tilak. His other senior colleagues were Prof. R.S. Mugali, Prof. V.K. Gokak and Prof. R.S. Sharma. Later he joined Karnatak University Dharwad in 1955 and completed Doctorate. He retired as Prof. and Head of Dept. of History in 1971.

He was senior Full Bright Fellow at Wisconsin Madison, USA and visiting professor at Toronto University, Canada. He edited a book on "American History by Indian Historian". He was a member of several historical research institutions in the country.

He has guided twenty students in their Ph.D.work (including me). He authored nine books and hundreds of learned articles and lectures in Kannada and English.

He presided over South Indian History Congress, The 21st Annual Conference of the Institute of Historical Study, Karnatak History Congress and Adhra Pradesh History Congresses.

As Founder-President of Karnatak Itihas Academy Bangalore, he was responsible to bring to light hundreds of up and coming researchers in Karnataka History.

He was known for his generosity and kindness towards student community. Scores of students remember his help in getting a studentship, a job, or a placement. He played tennis till his late 50’s and was avid promoter of physical culture. He enjoyed good health and was active in editing, reading and writing till the very end. Admired and respected by the academicians and students alike he knew hundred’s of them spread throughout the country and kept regular correspondence. Soft-spoken and suave he helped many to overcome their personal and academic difficulties.

He has left behind ever supporting wife Tara Dikshit and two daughters who all shared his academic interest.

May his soul rest in peace.