KANNADA
Pioneer woman writer
V. GOPALAKRISHNA
KANUPARTI VARALAKSHAMMA: Tr. in Kannada by Gayatri Devi of Telugu monograph by Polapragada Rajyalakhmi; Sahitya Akademi, 35, Ferozshah Road, New Delhi-110001. Rs. 40.
THIS MONOGRAPH is a short biography of a pioneer woman writer in modern Telugu. A bridge between old and new ways of Telugu writing, Kanuparti Varalakshamma was the first woman writer to express her feelings in a dignified language. With her reformist outlook embedded in tradition, she awakened, influenced and shaped the women writers to cope with new trends in writing in the beginning of the 20th century.
“Sharadalekhalu”, articles in the form of letters, is one of her outstanding contributions. They discuss burning problems such as the Sharada Bill, divorce, property rights, polygamy, dowry, and widow-remarriage. Another book worthy of mention is her collection of essays. Her skilful narration, mastery over different dialects of Telugu, deep knowledge about the customs and manner of Telugu-speaking areas are portrayed here.
The biographer has given details of her early life, social and political activities, and the honours received by her. The translation is good.
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