Non-Kannadigas in Bangalore now have a reason to learn Kannada. Kamala Goenka Foundation, the trust that recognises accomplishments in the field of literature, is now back with its free Kannada classes in the city.
With a registration fee of `100, students can sign up for a three-month course in basic spoken Kannada. An advanced course that deals with writing in Kannada is also available for those who can speak the language.
The classes that were started in 2011 were stalled a few months ago due to the relocation of the premises to Sadashivanagar. They will resume on July 6, with Prof Gnanamurthy conducting the sessions between 10 am to 12 pm on Sundays.
Lalita Goenka, a trustee of the foundation, says, "When we moved to Bangalore from Bombay 12 years ago, my father-in-law Shyamsundar Goenka started the Kamala Goenka Foundation. Along with promoting literary activities, he thought we should also start teaching Kannada to the Hindi-speaking crowd in the city. That is when the classes started," she says.
"It is essential for people to learn the local language of the city that they live in, for life becomes much easier when you can communicate better with the locals," she observes, adding, "My father-in-law and I are still learning Kannada. While I can understand the language, I'm working on my speaking skills."
A young crowd, mainly consisting of North Indians, takes up these classes, she further says. Twelve classes will be held over a period of three months, and 20-30 students have signed up for the course this season.
Managing trustee Shyamsundar Goenka says, "As North Indians, it is our duty to assimilate and amalgamate with the language and culture here in Karnataka. I love languages, and I wanted more people like me to have the option of learning Kannada."
"Luckily, we came across Prof Gnanamurthy, who offered to teach at our foundation for free. If more such teachers come forward to work with us, we would even consider expanding to different parts of the city, he adds.
The sessions will be held at Madhukunj, 118, 9th Main, 7th Cross, RMV Extension. For pre-registration, contact Lalita Goenka on 93419-43535.