DK writers get mention in state budget

Mangaluru: Chief minister Siddaramaiah's 16th state budget on Friday included a couple of surprises for DK-based writers. The first was for Bolwar Mahammed Kunhi, and the second was for Wilson Kateel. Siddaramaiah announced that the novel "Swatantryada Ota," written by Kendra Sahitya Academy awardee Sri Boluvaru Mohammad Kunhi, would be made into a drama and enacted throughout the state with ab allocation of Rs 1 crore. When TOI contacted Kunhi, he said he was happy for two reasons - one, it was an occasion to be glad, and secondly, it was an honour that it was announced in the state budget. The 1,110-page opus spans the pre- and post-Independence era and delves into Hindu-Muslim relationships. Kunhi, a short story writer, novelist, playwright, and scriptwriter, was conferred with the Central Sahitya Academy twice for creative prose. He said Rangayana from Shivamogga called him, informing him that their proposal for dramatizing had been sanctioned. Wilson Kateel, also known as Wilson Roshan Sequeira from Kateel, wears multiple hats as a poet, lyricist, and story writer. He said when he received the first call, he was surprised. After a few minutes, he started getting calls that the CM mentioned his free verse in the budget speech for highlighting the importance of water resources. He said he was happy that the CM chose his free verse in the budget speech. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Women's Day wishes, messages and quotes !