Namma Shankranna

Exactly 64 years ago, on this day in the place named Honnavara, Shankar Nag was born. Born in Konkani speaking family which was settled in Shirali, a village near Bhatkala in Uttar Kannada of Karnataka State, Shankar Nag had a elder sister Shyamala and an elder brother Ananth Nag. Completing his formal education here Shankar moved to Mumbai.

Shankar Nag was a symbol of perfection and an alternate name of speed in the film industry. His works like Malgudi days and many more are evergreen masterpieces. His words motivated hundreds of people and his life has inspired thousands. His works are itself a guide, study material for  filmmakers irrespective of freshers, actors, directors and editors.

There are 101 and more reasons for the people of Karnataka to love this person. His works appealed to the classes and masses may it be theatre or movie making. Though he was in the peak of his career at his time, he was always down to earth. He was a man who followed the principle of "Simple living, high thinking". The people of Sandalwood with lots of love call him "Autoraja" and "Shankranna" accepting him as a proud son of Karnataka.

Shankranna had his own dream city, his innovative ideas are not yet implemented in many aspects is the unfortunate reality. He was a man who thought  ahead of his time. He had a Nobel thought of uniting all the Kannada film industry actors, directors and producers into a committee. He always thought of contributing to the society. With that intention he started the country club, did survey for Metro trains and also came up with low cost housing. But before he could achieve we lost him.
His absence is irreplaceable, a great loss and damage to the country and its growth. Words are not enough to describe him and his personality. Today on his 64th birth anniversary, I remember one of his quotes which I would love to share with you.
"When you are given with a white sheet of paper to draw, why draw only bicycle? Draw an aeroplane." -Shankar nag.

Yours Lovingly,
Jogi B Mahesh