Be open to criticism, write well, says HSV

BANGALORE: It is important for budding writers and poets to be open to criticism, said renowned poet H S Venkatesh Murthy (HSV) on Tuesday. “You should also make continuous and sustained efforts to keep up the standards of your writing,” he advised young writers at a programme organised by the Kannada Book Authority (KBA) to give awards to 21 young writers.“Young writers should keep kindling their inner flame to come up with innovative and interesting concepts,” said Murthy.Former director general of police Ajai Kumar Singh, who was also present at the awards ceremony, said every art should have societal concern.“There is no meaning to the phrase: art for art’s sake.Literature should help improve society and not just be entertaining. Every piece should also reflect our culture and tradition,” he said.At the event, Singh presented the young writers with `10,000 cash award each - constituted by the book authority - in the presence of KBA Chairman Dr Siddalingaiah.The latter praised the literary works of Murthy and lauded Singh for being a role model to IPS and IAS officers from other states.