“Book Review: Matadaana By S. L. Bhyrappa – A Timeless Tale Of Society And Transformation”, The Commune, October 07, 2025
“This book review comes during despondent times of S. L. Bhyrappa’s (SLB) passing and unification with the elements. I had picked this book up as this is the latest offering from Subbu Publications, and SLB’s works are always an attraction. First of all, the English translation is top-notch, with the core essence of the culture and times retained as compared to the Kannada original. The language is quite simple and lucid, with some quintessential Kannada words quoted in their original form. This effort has ensured that non-Kannada speakers can fully savour the richness of this fantastic composition.
MataDana means Voting in Kannada. However, the literal meaning is Daana, i.e., gift or bestowing a charity/favour of Mata, i.e., Vote. Quite literally, the name itself is laden with so many interesting facets of the novel. The story is set in the rural setup of Karnataka and deals with the lives and times of a few of the characters. Dr. Shivalingappa, a young and idealistic doctor whose mind is set on being a social reformer rather than one to benefit from his medical education. As a human, he puts society at large ahead of personal comforts or, for that matter, personal priorities. The book is about a few of the characters directly or indirectly connected to this central character and an election that changes the lives of each of these in an irreversible manner.
First and foremost, the book is a sharp reflection of society. S. L. Bhyrappa turns philosophical and asks some very hard questions about the society we inhabit, the values we profess, and what we practice and the overall destination of life. As one proceeds with the book, one may start to wonder if the author was a clairvoyant. The happenings around the election, the words spoken about the choice of candidates etc, reminds one of a similar recent “civil society movement” that emphasised very similar lines. SLB clearly articulates the various faults in society wherein the simplicity of a few well-meaning individuals is sacrificed at the altar of politics…..”
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