Kannada Sahitya Sammelana calls for literature to preserve human values amid technological advancement

The 28th Dakshina Kannada Kannada Sahitya Sammelana, held at Sparsha Kala Mandira in Bantwal, addressed the critical balance between technological advancement and literary tradition. Conference president Chidambara Baikampadi emphasized that *literature must remain socially engaged* and uphold human values that transcend religious and caste divisions.

Baikampadi highlighted Dakshina Kannada's unique multilingual character, where Kannada, Tulu, Konkani, and Byari coexist harmoniously. He noted the *deep respect for Kannada* within the Tulu community and stressed that languages flourish naturally without conflict in the region.

The conference raised concerns about declining reading habits due to increased mobile and social media usage. Speakers warned that technology, if not used constructively, could foster hatred and intolerance. The current education system was criticized for being overly job-oriented while lacking value-based teaching, with particular alarm over the decline of Kannada-medium schools.

Dignitaries including representatives from Tulu, Byari, and Konkani Sahitya Academies attended, underscoring the event's commitment to linguistic diversity. The sammelana called for *transparency in literary awards* and recognition of historical figures like freedom fighter Rani Abbakka, emphasizing that holistic societal development requires literature, technology, and linguistic coexistence to progress together.