Stop WhatsApp Obsession, Develop Habit of Reading Books: Dr. Purushottama Bilimale
Bengaluru: Renowned retired professor, Dr. Purushottama Bilimale, has stressed on the need to shift away from the obsession with WhatsApp and move towards fostering a culture of reading books. Speaking at the Second Indian Library Session organised by the Indian Library Congress Organizing Committee at Jnan Jyoti Hall, Dr. Bilimale expressed disappointment over the diminishing importance of libraries in the digital age.
He said, "We have now reached below the WhatsApp University. There is no review or discussion. Now WhatsApp has eaten the library too. It is sad that teachers and lecturers are caught in this." Dr. Bilimale stressed the importance of increasing knowledge and suggested revitalising libraries to meet modern needs.
Advocating for digitization, Dr. Bilimale proposed the creation of digital libraries to make information accessible to everyone, irrespective of location. He also spoke about the need to digitise Karnataka's folk arts, ensuring preservation and accessibility.
Reflecting on globalisation, Dr. Bilimale urged for the elevation of Indian literature to a global platform, citing the perspective of renowned writer Kuvempu. He recalled the disciplinary role of books in education during the 1960s and 70s, highlighting their significance in shaping learning experiences.
Rajya Sabha member V. Sivadasan echoed the importance of libraries in fostering awareness about constitutional principles and secularism. He announced plans for the third library congress to be held in Telangana, emphasising the role of libraries in promoting societal awareness.
Dr. Satish Hosmani highlighted the establishment of 447 digital libraries in the state, with a significant membership base. He spoke about the importance of utilising these resources to reach rural areas effectively.
The event was attended by Telangana Rajya Sabha Member AVN Raju, Dr. L. Hanumantiah, Dr. Rajendra Kumar, Lecturer Prof. L. N. Mukundaraj, E. Basavaraju, and other dignitaries.
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Sengottaiyan secures historic 10th victory in Gobichettipalayam assembly constituency
Gobichettipalayam (Tamil Nadu) (PTI): In a historic 10th win, veteran leader K A Sengottaiyan clinched the Gobichettipalayam seat in the 2026 Assembly elections.
Contesting for the first time under actor Vijay’s TVK, the 78-year-old secured approximately 71,380 votes, defeating DMK’s N Nallasivam by a margin of nearly 13,000 votes.
This win marks Sengottaiyan’s 10th consecutive victory in the constituency, cementing his status as an immovable force in the region despite his high-profile exit from the AIADMK in late 2025.
His success was a cornerstone for the TVK, which emerged as a formidable force across the state. Supporters celebrated the win as a testament to Sengottaiyan’s personal influence, which successfully transitioned from his former Dravidian home to the newly formed TVK.
