Toronto, Nov 10: Recalling the creator of "Magical" Malgudi, scholars, novelists and academicians here have paid rich tributes to R K Narayan on his 100th birth anniversary.
Prominent scholars and writers gathered for the ''Eye on India event - a tribute to the 100th birth anniversary of Narayan'' here were unanimous in their view that the master
story-teller left an indelible impression on his readers across the world.
Delineating Malgudi as an invention and a work of art, Andrew Ignatieff of the world literacy of Canada, said "Anyone with an interest in fiction could hardly have missed Narayan or Malgudi. One could take Narayan out of Malgudi but not Malgudi out of Narayan."
"R K Narayan was a phenomenon as he lived in a non-English milieu but wrote in English", said novelist David Davidar who knew Narayan for decades and met him at his home town in the twilight of his life.
Rohinton Mistry, noted author and winner of Canada''s Goveror general award, said Narayan found beauty in simple things, like the aroma of coffee.
"When Narayan wrote ''The Train Had Just Arrived At Malgudi Station'' he was writing about a small station in Mysore - a picturesque station that still boasts of just one
tea stall and serves as an ''Adda'' (hang out joint) for locals," Mistry remarked.
Satish Mehta, Consul General of India said Narayana was not only an outstanding writer but also an excellent Veena player who devoted his life to the cause of Indian literature.
The event was organised by the World Literacy of Canada with the support of the Consulate General of India and Panorama India.
Bureau Report
