Rename Telugu University after Palkuriki Somanatha: Vice Chancellor 

In the Telugu literary sphere, Prof S V Satyanarayana needs no introduction. A prominent writer, retired professor of Telugu, Osmania University, Prof Satyanarayana has now donned a new role he has assumed responsibilities as the 10th Vice Chancellor of the Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University.

Prof Satyanarayana spoke in an exclusive interview. Following are the excerpts
What is your vision for the Telugu University?
People of Telangana State expect a lot from me, because a pakka Telanganite is the VC now. We have plenty of books on Telugu literature, but all revolve around Andhra Sahityam. There is no place for Telangana in them. This is one of the worrying issues for me. There is a need to compile a dictionary on Telangana dialect. Another important aspect is the present name of the University.

It should be renamed after Telangana’s legendary writer-cum-poet, Palkuriki Somanatha. Any other name of this region is also acceptable, because we are the legatees of Somanatha, not of Nannaya. You know one of the proverbs of Hermann Göring, one of the advisors of Hitler? ‘If you want to fade out your enemy, then first destroy their culture, so they never unite again.’

How do you plan to support Telangana literature?
Emerging writers and scholars of Telangana will be welcomed and received red carpet treatment and the University can help in their research by using grants from UGC (University Grants Commission). Under ‘ancient language honour,’ around Rs 100 crore was given in five years. The land donated to Telugu Bhasha Peetham at Nalgonda can be protected by fencing with the aid from local politicians.

Telangana is a hub of talent, art form and folklore. Here we find many prominent writers, poets, and artistes who lent their support to the development of Telangana culture. Noted poets like Dasharathi Krishnamacharya, Kaloji Narayana Rao, Bhagaiah, Gangula Sai Reddy, Andesri, Suddala Hanumanthu, Gaddar and Goreti Venkanna contributed a lot. Now the writings of these icons need to be honoured and brought into limelight.

Being in the X Schedule of AP Reorganisation Act, will it be possible to make these changes?
Being in X Schedule is not a hurdle to our University. I can do changes without disturbing it. From now onwards, Telugu is no more an optional subject up to UG. It applies to those from other States also. It means one who is studying here must take Telugu. Now it is a compulsory paper. We are planning to recommend this to State government. (jhub)

By P Srinivas /B Santhosh Kumar