TLDR;
This video summarizes and discusses Besagarahalli Ramanna's "Avva" (Mother) story, highlighting the profound love and sacrifices of a mother. The story revolves around Kempakka, a grandmother, her son Chennanna, and her grandsons, Puttarama and Devaraja. Key themes include the portrayal of rural life, the importance of maternal love, and the challenges faced by families in difficult circumstances. The narrative explores Kempakka's fierce protectiveness over her family and livestock, symbolizing the nurturing and selfless nature of motherhood.
- Introduction to Besagarahalli Ramanna and his works.
- Kempakka's role as a protective and nurturing grandmother.
- Chennanna's struggles and the family's economic hardships.
- The significance of the cow as a symbol of motherhood and sustenance.
- The ultimate triumph of maternal love and sacrifice.
Introduction to the Story "Avva" [0:00]
The video begins by introducing the story "Avva" by Besagarahalli Ramanna, emphasizing its beautiful depiction of a mother's love. The narrator introduces Dr. Besagarahalli Ramanna, born in 1938 in Mandya district, as a doctor by profession who contributed significantly to Kannada literature. His notable works include "Nelada Odalu," "Garjane," "Harakeyana," "Ondu Huduganige Biddha Kanasu," and "Nelada Siri," along with the comprehensive story collection "Kannambadi" and the novels "Raktha Kanneeru" and "Tholagala Naduve." Ramanna, a recipient of the State Sahitya Academy Award, passed away in 1998, leaving behind a legacy of vividly portraying rural life.
Characters Introduction [2:03]
The main characters are introduced: Kempakka, the grandmother; her son Chennanna; and her grandsons, Puttarama and Devaraja. Chennanna's wife is deceased, leaving Kempakka to care for the children. Other characters include Kacche Ningana, a broker, Puttaningi, with whom Chennanna has a relationship after his wife's death, and Sahukar Veerabhadrayya, a moneylender. A significant character is a cow with calves, symbolizing motherhood and playing a crucial role in illustrating Kempakka's maternal instincts.
The Story Begins: Kempakka and Her Grandchildren [3:40]
The story opens with Kempakka's grandson, Puttarama, affectionately interacting with the twin calves, promising to decorate them for the Sankranti festival. Kempakka smiles, amused by his innocent affection. Puttarama, a nine-year-old boy raised by his grandmother due to his mother's death, spends much of his time with the calves, showing them great affection. Chennanna arrives with Kacche Ningana and two strangers, intending to sell the cow and calves.
Kempakka's Resistance to Selling the Cow [6:58]
Kempakka becomes angry upon realizing Chennanna's intentions to sell the cow, which had come with his late wife. She confronts him, accusing him of being quick to sell off family assets. Chennanna retorts, telling her to stay out of it, but Kempakka insists she will care for the animals if he cannot. She criticizes Kacche Ningana for his eagerness to broker the deal, ordering him to leave. Addressing the potential buyers, Kempakka pleads with them not to buy the cow and calves, leading them to leave, realizing the deal is off.
Conflict and Confrontation [9:37]
Chennanna scolds Kempakka for interfering, but she defends her actions, reminding him of past instances where he sold family assets. She accuses him of neglecting his responsibilities and criticizes his relationship with Puttaningi. Frustrated, Chennanna leaves, telling Kempakka to do as she pleases. Puttarama, caught in the middle, watches the events unfold, confused and silent.
Devaraja and the Lost Cow [11:08]
Devaraja, the elder grandson, takes the cows to the "Olagere," a grazing land. While playing with friends, a heavy rainstorm begins, and everyone seeks shelter at a Basavanna temple. The cows scatter, and Devaraja worries about his cow. As darkness falls and the rain lessens, he returns home, only to find the cow missing. He tells Kempakka, who fears the cow may have fallen into a ditch.
Kempakka's Prayers and Chennanna's Search [12:55]
Kempakka prays to Nandibasappa, vowing to offer a "hanasa" (sweet dish) during the next Sankranti if the cow returns unharmed. Chennanna arrives home and is furious to learn the cow is missing. He prepares to beat Devaraja, but Kempakka stops him, reminding him of his oath not to harm the children. Taking a lantern, Chennanna sets out to find the cow, encountering Ninganna, who informs him that the cow is likely held by the "Keremegala Doddiyavaru" for grazing in their sugarcane field.
The Cow's Return and Maternal Love [16:03]
Chennanna returns home and angrily instructs Devaraja to retrieve the cow the next day. The calves cry out for their mother, upsetting Chennanna. Kempakka explains that the calves are calling for their mother, something he wouldn't understand. She emphasizes the importance of a mother's presence and care. Chennanna recalls an incident from his childhood when Sahukar Veerabhadrayya demanded his mother sell him into servitude to pay off a debt. Kempakka had fiercely refused, working hard to raise the money and protect her son.
The Climax: The Cow's Return and Maternal Instincts [20:13]
As the night progresses, a storm rages, and the calves huddle close to Kempakka and Devaraja, frightened by the thunder. In the early morning, Chennanna hears a commotion and discovers the cow has broken free from where it was held and returned to its calves. The cow, injured from breaking the tether, is greeted by its eager calves, who begin to nurse. Chennanna witnesses the scene, recognizing the powerful bond between mother and offspring. The story concludes by highlighting the profound nature of maternal love, beautifully depicted through the cow's actions and Kempakka's unwavering devotion to her family.
