Saraswathi Samman Award recipient and writer S.L. Bhyrappa announced the release of his new novel, ‘Uttarakaanda’, after a wait of two-and-half years.
According to G. Raja of Sahitya Bhandara, publisher of all the works of Mr. Bhyrappa, the new novel will hit the stalls on January 16 without any fanfare. The much-awaited 336-page novel is priced at Rs. 375 (hardbound).
Record editions
Mr. Bhyrappa is one of the most widely read writers in Kannada whose works and stances have often stoked controversies. Most of his works have been translated into all major languages. His works have the distinction of seeing a record number of editions. His previous novel ‘Yaana’, which became controversial, saw record sales on the day of its release. His ‘Kavalu’, which also created a controversy, saw eight editions. ‘Avarana’, arguably his most controversial work, saw over 35 editions.
Uttarakaanda is an attempt to look at Rama’s story from Seetha’s perspective and experience. This is the second time that Mr. Bhyrappa is tackling an epic. Thirty-seven years ago, he wrote ‘Parva’ (Epoch), a retelling of the Mahabharata. Parva is in the form of personal reflections of some of the principal characters of the epic.
From bits of information revealed by the publisher and the writer, readers are looking forward to a Parva - like narrative in Uttarakaanda too. Both the writer and the publisher have been tight-lipped about the content. “Mr. Bhyrappa has tried to present the story of Rama from the experience and thoughts of Seetha,” said Mr. Raja.
When The Hindu contacted Mr. Bhyrappa, he declined to speak about his work till its release. “Preparation for writing the novel itself took three years. I will speak about the preparation and travel I have done before writing the novel in detail later,” he said.
Travelled extensively
Mr. Bhyrappa travelled extensively before writing Parva and dedicated a chapter on the preparation he made to write his magnum opus in his collection of essays ‘Naaneke Bareyuttene’.
