Manohar Prasad – A titan in journalism and literature

Team Udayavani, Mar 2, 2024, 9:55 AM IST

Mangaluru: The journalistic and literary community mourns the loss of a towering figure, Manohar Prasad, whose indelible contributions spanned across journalism, literature, and cultural realms.

Prasad, who was known as “MP” in journalistic circles, a name synonymous with excellence, breathed his last, leaving behind a legacy marked by relentless pursuit of truth and profound literary prowess.

Prasad’s multifaceted journey encompassed remarkable achievements in various domains including culture, sports, literature, fine arts, theater, cinema, social awareness, organization, and education. Renowned for his studiousness and remarkable memory, he wielded his pen with finesse, delving into diverse subjects ranging from Yakshagana, Kambala, and the history of Tulunadu to folk rituals, heritage, and literature.

His illustrious career at Udayavani witnessed the production of over 3,000 special reports, interviews, investigative pieces, and films. Prasad’s literary acumen found expression in his columns for Taranga, Rooptara, and Tushara magazines of the Udayavani group. His insightful interviews with luminaries such as Mother Teresa, Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai, and APJ Abdul Kalam resonated with readers across the nation.

Manohar Prasad also made significant contributions to the digital section of Udayavani, leaving an indelible mark on its online presence and video content. His expertise and dedication played a pivotal role in enhancing the digital platforms of the publication, ensuring its relevance and engagement in the digital age.

Prasad’s commitment to public service was evident in his series of 25 consecutive research articles on the freedom struggle of Dakshina Kannada district. Additionally, his profound understanding of coastal Karnataka’s history was reflected in 608 meticulously crafted research articles published under the series “Nammuru” in Udayavani. He was a regular columnist, known for his thought-provoking pieces in ‘Nera Nota’ and recently ‘Theera Yana’.

In a tragic incident in 1986, when a BSF helicopter crashed near Sakaleshpur, Prasad displayed exemplary courage by reporting from the crash site, highlighting his dedication to truthful reporting even in the face of adversity.

Beyond journalism, Prasad’s literary contributions shone brightly with the publication of 30 short stories and the novel ‘Bandi,’ which earned him the prestigious Paniyadi Award. His collection of Tulu stories titled “Badkda Bandi” further solidified his status as a literary luminary.

Prasad’s unparalleled contributions were duly recognized with over 100 awards, including the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award and honors from the Karnataka Media Academy, a testament to his enduring impact on society.

Condolences:

The news of Prasad’s demise has elicited profound grief from dignitaries and the community alike. Tributes poured in from prominent figures such as Dharmasthala Dharmadhikari Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, and pontiff of Udupi’s Sri Pejavara Matha, alongside a multitude of political leaders, journalists, and literary enthusiasts. Many dignitaries paid their last respects to MP on Friday.

MMNL Executive Chairman Satish U Pai, Taranga Managing Editor Sandhya S Pai, MTL Executive Chairman Gautham S Pai, MMNL MD & CEO Mr. Vinod Kumar, Udayavani former Editor N Gururaj, Former Union Minister Janardhan Poojary, Dr Veerappa Moily, Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, BJP State President B Y Vijayendra, Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U T Khader, MP Nalin Kumar Kateel, Former Ministers Ramanath Rai, Vinay Kumar Sorake, MLAs Dr. CN Ashwath Narayan, Vedavyas Kamath, Dr. Bharat Shetty, Sunil Kumar, Umanath Kotyan, Harish Poonja, Rajesh Naik U, Bhagirathi Murulya, Gurme Suresh Shetty, Yashpal A Suvarna, Legislative Council Members Dr. Manjunath Bhandari, Harish Kumar, Pratap Simha Nayak, Kota Srinivas Poojary, and disgnitaries Dr M N Rajendra Kumar, Sudheer Shetty Kannur, Dr. Mohan Alva, Prof Narendra L Nayak, Ankush Nayak, Dr. M P Srinath, and Srinivas Nayak have expressed their condolence.

Manohar Prasad’s family members including businessman Srinath Hebbar, Dr. Srikanth Rao, Inna Srikanth Rao, and Prashant Hebbar, have expressed their deep grief.

As the community bids farewell to a stalwart in journalism and literature, Prasad’s legacy of integrity, wisdom, and literary brilliance will continue to inspire generations to come.