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D.V. Gundappa
ಡಿ.ವಿ. ಗುಂಡಪ್ಪ
DVG — the sage of Karnataka journalism and literature
Years
1887 – 1975
Known as
D.V. Gundappa — journalist, poet, and essayist
Birthplace
Kolar, Karnataka
Field
Poets & Writers
“The newspaper is a trust — and the journalist is the servant of the people's truth.”
— D.V. Gundappa
The Story
Born in 1887 in Kolar, DVG was largely self-educated, and his learning was vast — he became one of the most respected public figures of Karnataka without ever attending a university. He entered journalism young and served as the editor of several newspapers, using the press to serve the people and the cause of the Kannada language.
His greatest work is the Manku Thimmana Kagga — 'the song of the simpleton Thimma' — a book of philosophical poems in which a simple villager reflects on life, God, and the world with humour and depth. The book became one of the best-loved works of Kannada literature, quoted in every home and school of the state.
He also wrote essays, biographies, and works on the economy and public affairs, and served on several public bodies with great distinction. He died in 1975, honoured as the sage of Karnataka letters — a man whose life and works remain a treasure of the Kannada language.
Core Ideas
Manku Thimmana Kagga
His beloved book of poems on life's wisdom.
The Journalist
Seven decades of service to the press and the people.
The Self-Made Scholar
His vast learning was won without a university.
The Essayist
Biographies and essays that enriched the language.
The Public Servant
His counsel was sought in the affairs of the state.
Why it matters today
D.V. Gundappa is honoured as the sage of Kannada literature — the writer whose Manku Thimmana Kagga is among the most loved books of the language. His name is given to awards and institutions, his words are quoted in every Kannada home, and his life remains the model of the journalist and writer in the service of the people.