Emergence and Development of Bandaya Sahitya in Kannada Literature

JOURNAL ARTICLE

Author (s): Dr. Kariyanna E

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Abstract: This article aims to explain the emergence of Bandaya Sahitya (Protest Literature) in Kannada literature during the 1970s as a powerful literary movement that voiced resistance against social inequality, caste oppression, and economic injustice. Rooted in progressive ideologies and influenced by Dalit and socialist movements in Karnataka, Bandaya literature redefined Kannada literary expression by shifting its focus from aesthetic and romantic concerns to socio-political realities. This paper examines the historical background of the emergence of Bandaya Sahitya in Kannada literature and evaluates its impact on Kannada literature and society. As per result, As a result, the emergence and development of Bandaya Sahitya in Kannada literature can be understood as a significant literary movement shaped by socio-political realities and sustained by a strong commitment to social justice, equality, and resistance against oppression.

Keywords: Histroical Background, Bandaya Sahitya, Kannada literature, Major Writers, protest literature, Dalit literature, social inequality, caste oppression, socio-political movements, Karnataka, resistance literature, literary movements.

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Article Info: Received: 27 Mar 2026, Received in revised form: 25 Apr 2026, Accepted: 27 Apr 2026, Available online: 30 Apr 2026

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