The well-known writer and founder of Katha Nilayam, Kalipatnam Ramarao, popularly known as “Kara Mastaru”, died here on Friday due to age-related complaints. He was 97 years old. He leaves behind a daughter and five sons.
Born on November 9, 1924 in Murapaka village, Srikakulam district, Kara Mastaru had inspired nearly three generations with his literary works in Telugu.
In 1943 his first short story “Platform” was published. His works like “Yagnam”, “Kutra”, “Chavu”, “Arthi”, “Illu” and “Santhi” had won many hearts. In 2006 his last literary work “Annema Nayuralu” appeared.
A treasure trove
In February 1997 he founded Katha Nilayam, a treasure trove of Telugu short stories published since 1920.
Kara Mastaru has received many awards, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, for his invaluable contribution to Telugu literature. In 1995 he won the Akademi Prize for his literary work “Yagnam To Tommidi”.
Sri Potti Sriramulu Telugu University had awarded him an honorary doctorate for his invaluable contribution to Telugu literature.
Many of his works have been translated into English, Russian, Lithuanian, Tamil, Kannada, Hindi, and other languages.
Katha Nilyam President BVA Ramarao Naidu and Secretary Dasari Ramachandra Rao, who were with Kara Mastaru in his last days, remembered his struggle for the establishment of the unique library.
“Instead of relying on donations, Kara Mastaru had built Katha Nilayam with her own resources. His goal was to digitize all short stories and make them accessible to every reader around the world. The process is nearing completion. Literature lovers will remember him for his foresight in preserving the works of great writers across the country, ”said Mr. Ramarao Naidu and Mr. Ramachandra Rao.
Gurajada Educational Society chairman GV Swami Naidu, who worked with Kara Mastaru for five decades, said his contribution to Telugu literature will continue to inspire writers, poets and readers.
MLA Dharmana Prasada Rao, former MP and writer DVG Sankara Rao, former UPSC member KS Chalam, District Collector J. Nivas, Mahati Doctor Dhanvantari Sahiti Samskritika Seva Samstha convener Sampath Kumar and Sahaja Samskritika Samstha President NK Babu during the death of Kara. Condolent Mastaru said he would forever remain in the hearts of Telugu writers and readers.