Complete works of D.V.Gundappa

Fondly known by three letters DVG, Dr. Devanahalli, Venkataramanayya, Gundappa, D.V. Gundappa (1887-1975) was a colossus among Kannada writers. He has about 10,000 written printed pages to his credit which include poetry, biography, philosophy, literary criticism, children's literature, political commentaries, reminiscences of his great contemporary personalities, religion, translations (both Sanskrit and English), plays, philosophical notes and autobiographical works. His "Mankutimmana Kagga" lyrical musings on every day life in particular and mankind in general and "Umarana Usage" (Kannada version of Omar Khayyam's Rubaita world classic) are considered master pieces. They are very popular.

On the occasion of his birth centenary, all his works compiled in eleven volumes titled "D.V.G. Kriti Shreni", are jointly published by Department of Kannada and Culture and Karnataka Sahitya Academy. Very ably edited by late Dr. Ha.Ma. Nayak the volumes were published between 1990-2000 CE. A second edition was brought out in 2005 CE.

Kamat's Home Library is richer now by the inclusion of these eleven volumes, each having no less than 500 pages. They are an asset and treat at the same time. I am enjoying the light humour and living comments on his contemporary artists, writers and socialites. But his commentary on Bhagavadgita, entitled Jeevanadharmayoga (yoga of everyday life) is an extraordinary piece, which provides great solace and at the same time makes a commoner realize values of life, D.V.G has turned the great Hindu philosophical work into a common man's handbook of useful life. This second volume of D.V.G.'s Kriti Shreni (Serial) is my first dose of serious reading, now early in the morning, everyday.