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Ravi Belagere was a pivotal figure in Indian journalism and literature, known especially for his contributions to Kannada media. Born on March 15, 1958, in Sathyanarayanapete, Bellary, Karnataka, Belagere's life was a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of the written word. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated writer, journalist, and editor is both inspiring and complex, marked by significant achievements and controversies.
Early Life and Education
Belagere's early education was at Siddhaganga High School in Tumkur, where he faced academic challenges, failing his SSLC (Secondary School Leaving Certificate) exam. Undeterred by this setback, he pursued higher education, eventually obtaining a master's degree in history and archaeology from Veerashaiva College in Bellary. This academic background would later influence his writing style and the subjects he explored.
Career Beginnings
Starting his career as a lecturer of history in various cities like Bellary, Hassan, and Hubli, Belagere moved to Bengaluru in 1984, where he embarked on his journey in journalism. His entry into the media world was marked by the establishment of the Kannada language tabloid "Hai Bangalore" on September 25, 1995. Alongside co-founders R. T. Vittalamurthy, Ra. Somanath, Jogi, and I. H. Sangam Dev, Belagere transformed "Hai Bangalore" into one of the largest circulated newspapers in Karnataka, known for its bold and often sensationalist reporting.
Literary Contributions
Ravi Belagere was prolific as an author, with over 70 literary works to his name. His writings spanned genres including fiction, translation, storytelling, column writing, and biographies. Some of his notable works include "Love Lavike," "Bottom Item," and "Khaas Baat," where he often delved into the social, criminal, and cultural landscapes of Karnataka. His column "Paapigala Lokadalli" (In the World of Sinners) was particularly popular, offering readers a glimpse into the underworld's operations, often with a narrative flair that captivated his audience.
Media Ventures
Beyond print, Belagere ventured into radio with "Bel Belagge Ravi Belagere" on Akashvani, where he shared his insights and stories. He also hosted "Crime Diary" on ETV Kannada, a show focusing on crime in Karnataka, which became a significant part of his public persona. His involvement in television extended to acting and dialogue writing for films like "Encounter Dayanayak," "Meera Madhava Raghava," and "Deadly Soma," showcasing his multifaceted talents.
Controversies
Belagere's career was not devoid of controversy. In December 2017, he was embroiled in a scandal where he was accused of contracting the murder of his former colleague, Sunil Heggaravalli. The allegations included providing a country-made gun and an advance payment to contract killers. This led to his arrest under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Arms Act, spending time in Parappana Agrahara central jail. Additionally, his derogatory comments in 2010 against fellow journalist Pratap Simha led to significant professional fallout, including resignations at the newspaper Vijaya Karnataka.
Later Life and Legacy
Ravi Belagere's later years were marked by both personal and professional endeavors. He established Bhavana Prakashana, a publishing house, and Prarthana School, aimed at providing education to underprivileged children. His involvement in education reflected his broader interest in social welfare.
Belagere also participated in "Bigg Boss Kannada" season 7, which brought him back into the public eye in an entertaining format, showcasing his personality beyond his writings and controversies.
Death
Tragically, Ravi Belagere's life was cut short when he suffered a heart attack on November 13, 2020, passing away in Bengaluru at the age of 62. His death was mourned by many in Karnataka, where his influence in journalism and literature had left a significant mark.
Personal Life
Belagere was married twice. His first marriage was to Lalitha, with whom he had three children: Chethana, Bhavana, and Karna. His second marriage was to Yashomati, a former colleague at "Hai Bangalore," with whom he had one son, Himavanth. His personal life, like his professional one, was often under public scrutiny, especially due to the high-profile nature of his work and the subsequent controversies.
Impact on Kannada Literature and Journalism
Ravi Belagere's impact on Kannada literature and journalism is profound. He was seen as a liberal and highly influential journalist, known for his ability to engage readers with his storytelling and investigative journalism. His style was both admired and criticized; while some praised his ability to narrate the darker sides of society, others felt his methods sometimes bordered on sensationalism.
His contributions have left a lasting legacy in the Kannada-speaking world, with many of his books still in print and his journalistic methods discussed in media classes and by aspiring writers and journalists. His work on crime and social issues has been particularly noted for bringing attention to areas often ignored or under-reported by mainstream media.
Conclusion
Ravi Belagere's life encapsulates the journey of a man who rose from academic struggles to become an influential figure in Indian media and literature. His biography is not just a story of literary and journalistic success but also a narrative filled with human complexities, controversies, and an undying passion for storytelling. His work continues to be relevant, stirring conversations about ethics in journalism, the role of media in society, and the power of narrative in shaping public perception. His legacy, therefore, lives on, both in his published works and in the lives he influenced through his educational initiatives.
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