Writer sees need for philosophical thought to address social, political challenges

Published 16 July 2026 · india

Writer Raghunath Cha Ha has said that philosophical perspectives discussed in the book, Vartamanada Vivechaneya Dikkugalu (Directions of Contemporary Critical Thought), are highly relevant in

Writer Raghunath Cha Ha has said that philosophical perspectives discussed in the book, Vartamanada Vivechaneya Dikkugalu (Directions of Contemporary Critical Thought), are highly relevant in the present times, as they uphold human values, pluralism and democratic ideals. Releasing the book authored by Director of the Institute of Kannada Studies and Dean of the Faculty of Arts H.T. Pote at Gulbarga University here on Wednesday, he said that the work embodies the spirit of humanity and India’s pluralistic traditions while offering philosophical reflections needed to address contemporary social and political challenges.

Describing Prof. Pote as a committed writer inspired by Ambedkar’s ideals, he said that the author has consistently progressive, humanistic and people-centric thought through his writings. He has also made a sincere effort over the past two decades to present the ideas of Mahatma Gandhi and Ambedkar in a comparative perspective, arguing that Gandhian thought remains incomplete without Ambedkar’s vision, the writer said. Raghunath said that Prof. Pote’s acclaimed novel Mahayana presents Ambedkar’s philosophy in an engaging narrative form and inspires younger generations to embrace the ideals of equality, social justice and constitutional values.

He added that the author’s works question injustice, inequality and corruption while emphasising education as the foundation of social transformation. Speaking on the book, professor at the Central University of Karnataka Kiran Gajanur highlighted the need to reshape cultural values and stressed the urgency for incorporating Ambedkarite ethics and humanistic principles into everyday life. He observed that the ideas of Jyotirao Phule, Savitribai Phule, Shahu Maharaj, Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar and Ambedkar have played a transformative role in empowering marginalised communities through education. Pote said that the essays in the volume critically analyse his newspaper columns and advocate the adoption of progressive, democratic and human-centred values.

He also expressed concern over the shortage of permanent faculty at Gulbarga University and urged the university administration to strengthen academic resources. Presiding over the function, Vice-Chancellor Shashikant Udikeri said that the Institute of Kannada Studies has consistently undertaken activities beneficial to students, the university and society. He noted that Prof. Pote’s writings encourage ethical values, equality and social responsibility while reinforcing the constitutional ideals championed by Ambedkar.