Karnataka Government Extends Support to Preserve Mandya's Legendary Pustaka Mane Library
In a significant development for cultural heritage preservation, the efforts of Congress MLC Dinesh Gooligowda to safeguard and institutionalise the legendary Pustaka Mane of Anke Gowda are beginning to yield tangible results. Known fondly as Mandya's Akshara Santa or Saint of Letters, Anke Gowda's remarkable repository of knowledge has now garnered official support from the state government.
Government Initiatives for Infrastructure and Funding
Responding to persistent appeals from MLC Dinesh Gooligowda, Shivaraj Tangadagi, the Minister for Kannada and Culture, has taken decisive action. The minister has directed departmental officials to prepare and submit a comprehensive proposal for granting necessary funds. This financial assistance is earmarked for installing bookshelves and other essential infrastructure to properly organise the vast collection housed at Anke Gowda's Pustaka Mane in Haralahalli village.
The library is home to an astonishing collection of more than 25 lakh rare books, making its preservation a matter of cultural urgency. Acting on a formal memorandum submitted by Gooligowda, Minister Tangadagi has instructed the department secretary to expedite the processing of this request, signaling a proactive governmental approach.
Push for Tourism and Development Recognition
Taking his advocacy a step further, MLC Gooligowda recently met with Tourism Minister H K Patil. During this meeting, he strongly urged the minister to declare Anke Gowda's Pustaka Mane a Rural Cultural Tourist Destination. Such a designation would not only enhance the library's profile but also potentially attract visitors and additional resources for its upkeep and expansion.
In a detailed representation to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Gooligowda has outlined more ambitious plans. He has formally requested the allotment of five acres of land in Haralahalli and a substantial grant of Rs 5 crore. These resources are intended for the construction of a modern, state-of-the-art library complex that can adequately house and showcase the priceless collection.
Widespread Political Engagement and Support
The MLC's efforts have been comprehensive and multi-faceted. He has also approached Deputy Chief Minister and Water Resources Minister D K Shivakumar with the same set of requests, ensuring that the matter receives attention at the highest levels of the state administration.
In a conversation with TOI, MLC Dinesh Gooligowda elaborated on his motivation and actions. "After personally visiting Pustaka Mane and witnessing the immense effort that has gone into building this collection, I felt compelled to bring its needs to the forefront," he stated. "I have formally notified the Chief Minister, the Deputy Chief Minister, the Minister of Kannada and Culture, and the Tourism Minister about the critical requirements, which include both land allocation and financial assistance."
Celebrating Anke Gowda's Literary Legacy
The push for preservation comes at a moment of national recognition for Anke Gowda himself. At a felicitation ceremony organised at Pustaka Mane on Monday, the library founder was honoured by the Kannada Book Authority. This event followed the Government of India's announcement of his selection for the prestigious Padma Shri Award for 2026.
Speaking at the ceremony, Manasa, the Chairperson of the Kannada Book Authority, highlighted the extraordinary nature of Anke Gowda's literary journey. She described his life's work as a shining example for today's youth, demonstrating how a deeply personal passion for books can evolve into a monumental cultural movement with national significance.
Manasa praised Anke Gowda's remarkable success in building what is arguably one of the largest private libraries in the entire country. The collection is a testament to decades of dedication, comprising more than two million books across an impressive 20 different languages. This achievement underscores the global and inclusive nature of the knowledge preserved within Pustaka Mane's walls.
The combined efforts of a dedicated legislator and a responsive state government now offer a renewed hope for the future of this invaluable cultural asset in Mandya district.
