BELLARY: Former deputy chief minister M P Prakash who died on Wednesday belonged to the rare breed of politicians who thought beyond politics and carved a niche for themselves in the field of art and culture.
Known for his soft-spoken and sober behaviour, Prakash will be remembered for his simplicity and honesty in public life despite being in power for several years. Unlike today's politicians, Prakash never aspired or went out of his way to get power though he had all the qualities and capabilities to scale greater heights.
Born in a freedom fighter's family on July 11, 1940, Prakash started his public life as an advocate in Hoovinahadagali in Bellary district. The growing public contact and his urge to serve society brought him to active politics. He entered the state Assembly in 1983 after two unsuccessful attempts and then he never looked back. Blame it on luck if needed, but whenever he won, his party came to power and he became minister. He even became the Janata Dal president.
Prakash was instrumental in establishing the Agricultural University in Dharwad and Kannada University in Hampi. He organised the statelevel Janapada Sammelana in 1995 in Hadagali and received Fellowship from Nataka Academy in 1998. He used his might to safeguard the rich culture treasure of Vijayanagar dynasty by conducting Hampi Utsav which has now become an international event. Prakash has also earned the nick name 'Hampi Prakash' for his relentless efforts in organising the Hampi Utsav.
His fondness for theatre, music and cinema was well known. Not only did he organise dramas, he also directed several plays and even acted in it. Prominent plays directed by him include Jokumarswamy, SangyaBalya of Prof Chandrashekhar Kambar, Ashadhada Ondu Dina of Siddalinga Pattanashetti, Yayati and Baki Itihas of Girish Karnad and Hakki Harutide Nodidira, Andhakar among others.
He even set up a repertoire called 'Rangabharati' to promote theatre. His relentless service in the art field made Booker award winner V S Naipaul write glowing reports about him in his travelogue which was appreciated by many writers.