Noted Kannada author S L Bhyrappa dies at 94; ‘lost a towering stalwart,’ says PM Modi

Kannada Novelist-Philosopher SL Bhyrappa passes away at 94: Bhyrappa is known for his popular novels 'Vamshavriksha', 'Daatu', 'Parva', 'Mandara', among others.

Popular Kannada novelist and philosopher S L Bhyrappa (S L Bhyrappa/Website)

Eminent Kannada author and winner of Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri awards S L Bhyrappa passed away in Bengaluru Wednesday. He was 94. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah condoled his demise.

Bhyrappa was admitted to Rashtrotthana Hospital in Bengaluru three days ago after complaining of fatigue. Speaking to reporters, Dr H N Shyla, medical administrator of the hospital, said the writer suffered a cardiac arrest at around 1 pm on Wednesday. “Efforts to resuscitate did not succeed. He passed away at 2.38 pm,” she said.

The author’s mortal remains will be kept at Ravindra Kala Kshetra in Bengaluru on Thursday. His last rites will be performed in Mysuru on Friday.

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Born in 1931 at Santeshivara, Hassan district, Bhyrappa authored 26 novels apart from publishing critical essays on literature. His most popular works include Gruhabhanga, Parva, Aavarana, Nayi Neralu and others. Uttarakaanda, published in 2017, was his last novel. His works have been translated into English and other Indian languages.

Taking to X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote, “In the passing of Shri SL 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 generations to reflect, question and engage more deeply with society. His unwavering passion for our history and culture will continue to inspire minds for years to come. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this sad hour. Om Shanti,” PM Modi added.

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

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said he was saddened by the demise of the author. “Due to his intimate style of writing, Bhyrappa had a large number of readers. His demise has impoverished the literary world,” he stated.

Besides the Padma awards, Bhyrappa was also the recipient of the Saraswati Samman award, Sahitya Akademi award and the Pampa award. Many of his works have been made into films and television series.

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