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Samskruti
Dr D V Gundappa's ‘Samskriti (Culture)’, originally written in Kannada, is a comprehensive but condensed analysis of the complex concept of culture. It is written in an epigrammatic, Baconian style. With his legendary erudition, DVG juxtaposes Western thinkers like Shakespeare, Mathew Arnold, John Henry, Cardinal Newman and Emerson with the opinions of Eastern savants like Valmiki, Manu, Bhasa and Bharthrihari and gives examples from characters like Sri Rama, Bharata, Arjuna and Anjaneya to present his concept of Culture. At the same time, he defines Culture thus - "If an object in nature is beautified by the discrimination of man, it is Culture." This book is translated into English by Sri. S Ramaswamy.
130 pages, Paperback
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About the author
D.V.G.
52 books97 followersDevanahalli Venkataramanaiah Gundappa, popularly known as DVG, was a Kannada writer and philosopher. He is best known for Manku Thimmana Kagga, a collection of verses.
D.V.G has wrtitten several books relating to Poetry, Drama, Essays. He has translated several Shakespeare plays and other Greek plays to Kannada. He has also wrtitten Umarana osage, a translation of poems of Omar Khayyam in Kannada.
He received Kendra Sahitya Academy award. for his work ' Srimad BhagavadGeeta Tatparya' He was also awarded Padmabhushan, the third highest civilian award in the Republic of India in 1974.
His son B. G. L. Swamy was also a writer.
D.V.G has wrtitten several books relating to Poetry, Drama, Essays. He has translated several Shakespeare plays and other Greek plays to Kannada. He has also wrtitten Umarana osage, a translation of poems of Omar Khayyam in Kannada.
He received Kendra Sahitya Academy award. for his work ' Srimad BhagavadGeeta Tatparya' He was also awarded Padmabhushan, the third highest civilian award in the Republic of India in 1974.
His son B. G. L. Swamy was also a writer.
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
January 30, 2023
The first few opening lines of the introduction set the tone for the rest of the book, where the author clearly establishes the generalisation of the word “samskruthi” with the wider usage of its supposed “English” version i.e. Culture. DVG laments the modern day usage wherein words are used as cliches, but no attempt is made to understand the true meaning of the same.
DVG delves deeper into the meaning of the word tracing it to the origins of its etymological cousin “Samskara”, with the subsequent meanings of “samskruta” both from an individual & language perspective. DVG’s mastery over language is clearly evident when he explores the roots & subsequent offshoots of the word “Culture” which branches off into 2 different paths, one of which leads to Agriculture, Sericulture etc.
The pages 9 - 11 of the book are some of the very best by DVG where he extols what constitutes & more importantly doesn’t constitute Samskruthi. Theoretical knowledge, having wide worldly experiences, being well informed & ability to critique the finer details of various art forms doesn’t necessarily constitute samskruthi. Samskruthi becomes a confluence of ancient wisdom & worldly experiences. Samskruthi is one which enables us to alleviate ourselves towards a goal, general attribute that helps us to constantly improve ourselves. The sojourn to discover this attribute becomes Samskruthi.
One of the most profound statements of DVG : “Samskruthi becomes that which helps us to wash & cleanse our soul”. This is quite similar to the ancient wisdom of Sri Krishna in Srimad Bhagwad Gita: उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं नात्मानमवसादयेत् |. DVG summarises Samskruthi as an amalgamation of various streams of science & worldly wisdom. Samskruthi & Pragati (progress) go hand-in-hand with the former focussing on the individual & latter on the society.
While analysing Mathew Arnold’s definition of culture (samskruthi), DVG seamlessly establishes that the concept of samskruthi is as ancient as our vedas and Puranas. The verse quoted from the deeksha given during Brahmopadesha / Upanayana is laden with timeless wisdom. If one examines the meaning in detail, it wouldn’t surprise to note that the famous poem “If” could potentially be influenced by the same. DVG quotes the classical definition of Gentleman by Cardinal Newman (most widely accepted one) & draws the comparison with the wisdom contained within our Itihasas & Puranas. The various attributes required for a well lead life & the equanimity between opposing forces, is explained through a beautiful verse on Sri Rama.
DVG’s explanation of the 4 purusharthas through multiple references in Mahabharata is a masterclass, proving yet again, his diverse & in-depth intellectual prowess. The concept of Moksha explained through the hidden gem is fantastic. Simple, yet effective. The importance of guarding the “inner cleanliness” & its manifestations to the external world is explained in an expert manner. The explanation of the 4 sutra about the choice between Silence (mouna), Satya, Priya & Dharma would trigger thoughts about Socrates’ Triple Filter test.
The anecdote of how Rsi Vasishta breaks the news of Dasaratha’s death to Bharatha is one of the very finest from our ancient literature. This is a great role model example for effective communication, which is relevant even in the modern day. The brilliance of DVG is brought out in the form of related examples from Shakespeare’s MacBeth & Hamlet, where the poet has used similar strategies to convey difficult news. The concept of dharma-sookshma i.e. subtlety / finesse in dharma & contextual adaptability to utter Satya is brought out through a fine example from Sri Krishna’s advice to Arjuna.
In the section where DVG explains the “moola sthana” i.e. core aspects of life where samskruthi lies, he draws the attention of the reader to introspection & refinement. One could compare what DVG wrote with the practices of Benjamin Franklin, who used to spend a fair amount of time in reviewing and refining his personality. The influence of geography, immediate family, society, history in shaping the thought process and personality of an individual is brought out effectively by the author. The concept of similarity in dissimilarities and dissimilarity in similarities is beautifully explained by DVG.
The interplay of common vs speciality and how the attributes get reversed when looked at from different perspective is philosophical. The metaphysical interpretation of the world in the form of a farm/garden & explanation of the realities of life through plants is simply amazing. DVG impresses upon the reader about blind adoption of western methods in India & advises us to consider the western practices & their relevance in our society before assimilating into our culture. The recurring theme during the course of the book is constant self-evaluation, introspection & continuous self improvement. Irrespective of the factors & influences, DVG impresses upon the reader, the need for the above processes multiple times. Self awareness of both strengths and liabilities is crucial for building meaningful relationships.
DVG’s take on unidimensional view, which becomes rigid over time, is highly important and quite apt in the current context. His analysis of human behaviour and the collective impact on the society is excellent. The comparison between a surgeon & a well cultured person (susamskrutha) is quite interesting to note. Samskruthi is inherent, inborn, takes time to mature & reflects in every sphere of life. DVG explains this concept beautifully through an analogy of a plant. One of the profound statements is about the impact of fine / performing arts like music, dance, yakshagana etc on developing & influencing the wider cultural fabric & refining the mindset of society. Brilliant analysis.
DVG quotes from Ralph Waldo Emerson & Valmiki Ramayana to explain the depth of the subject, while providing more food for thought. The examples from our puranas and itihasas quoted by DVG is an absolute gem and definitely must read, specially the section on Seetha. The differentiation between Prakriti & Samskruthi is brought out eloquently through examples from daily life. The importance of Dharma in one’s life & the role played by the same in shaping one’s personality & outlook is explained through multiple anecdotes across Srimad Bhagwad Gita, Mahabharatha, Upanishads etc. The concluding portions provide a lot of data points for one to ponder upon & perhaps opens a dialogue with the self, on self-improvement & the vast gaps to be bridged.
The raw materials provided by Nature (Prakriti) is available to all animals, but humans alone can observe & refine them into something much more utilitarian & beautiful (samskruthi). This is highlighted in lucid detail by DVG in his talk in Akshavani. The importance of performing one’s own duties within the framework assigned to a role is critical in having a well cultured society, which is explained by DVG through some interesting anecdotes. The role of samskruthi is to identify the correct position for every aspect in life.
In summary, a MASTERPIECE of a book, perhaps the best self-improvement book one can read. EVERY WORD is worth its WEIGHT in GOLD. Do read, if not already done so.
DVG delves deeper into the meaning of the word tracing it to the origins of its etymological cousin “Samskara”, with the subsequent meanings of “samskruta” both from an individual & language perspective. DVG’s mastery over language is clearly evident when he explores the roots & subsequent offshoots of the word “Culture” which branches off into 2 different paths, one of which leads to Agriculture, Sericulture etc.
The pages 9 - 11 of the book are some of the very best by DVG where he extols what constitutes & more importantly doesn’t constitute Samskruthi. Theoretical knowledge, having wide worldly experiences, being well informed & ability to critique the finer details of various art forms doesn’t necessarily constitute samskruthi. Samskruthi becomes a confluence of ancient wisdom & worldly experiences. Samskruthi is one which enables us to alleviate ourselves towards a goal, general attribute that helps us to constantly improve ourselves. The sojourn to discover this attribute becomes Samskruthi.
One of the most profound statements of DVG : “Samskruthi becomes that which helps us to wash & cleanse our soul”. This is quite similar to the ancient wisdom of Sri Krishna in Srimad Bhagwad Gita: उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं नात्मानमवसादयेत् |. DVG summarises Samskruthi as an amalgamation of various streams of science & worldly wisdom. Samskruthi & Pragati (progress) go hand-in-hand with the former focussing on the individual & latter on the society.
While analysing Mathew Arnold’s definition of culture (samskruthi), DVG seamlessly establishes that the concept of samskruthi is as ancient as our vedas and Puranas. The verse quoted from the deeksha given during Brahmopadesha / Upanayana is laden with timeless wisdom. If one examines the meaning in detail, it wouldn’t surprise to note that the famous poem “If” could potentially be influenced by the same. DVG quotes the classical definition of Gentleman by Cardinal Newman (most widely accepted one) & draws the comparison with the wisdom contained within our Itihasas & Puranas. The various attributes required for a well lead life & the equanimity between opposing forces, is explained through a beautiful verse on Sri Rama.
DVG’s explanation of the 4 purusharthas through multiple references in Mahabharata is a masterclass, proving yet again, his diverse & in-depth intellectual prowess. The concept of Moksha explained through the hidden gem is fantastic. Simple, yet effective. The importance of guarding the “inner cleanliness” & its manifestations to the external world is explained in an expert manner. The explanation of the 4 sutra about the choice between Silence (mouna), Satya, Priya & Dharma would trigger thoughts about Socrates’ Triple Filter test.
The anecdote of how Rsi Vasishta breaks the news of Dasaratha’s death to Bharatha is one of the very finest from our ancient literature. This is a great role model example for effective communication, which is relevant even in the modern day. The brilliance of DVG is brought out in the form of related examples from Shakespeare’s MacBeth & Hamlet, where the poet has used similar strategies to convey difficult news. The concept of dharma-sookshma i.e. subtlety / finesse in dharma & contextual adaptability to utter Satya is brought out through a fine example from Sri Krishna’s advice to Arjuna.
In the section where DVG explains the “moola sthana” i.e. core aspects of life where samskruthi lies, he draws the attention of the reader to introspection & refinement. One could compare what DVG wrote with the practices of Benjamin Franklin, who used to spend a fair amount of time in reviewing and refining his personality. The influence of geography, immediate family, society, history in shaping the thought process and personality of an individual is brought out effectively by the author. The concept of similarity in dissimilarities and dissimilarity in similarities is beautifully explained by DVG.
The interplay of common vs speciality and how the attributes get reversed when looked at from different perspective is philosophical. The metaphysical interpretation of the world in the form of a farm/garden & explanation of the realities of life through plants is simply amazing. DVG impresses upon the reader about blind adoption of western methods in India & advises us to consider the western practices & their relevance in our society before assimilating into our culture. The recurring theme during the course of the book is constant self-evaluation, introspection & continuous self improvement. Irrespective of the factors & influences, DVG impresses upon the reader, the need for the above processes multiple times. Self awareness of both strengths and liabilities is crucial for building meaningful relationships.
DVG’s take on unidimensional view, which becomes rigid over time, is highly important and quite apt in the current context. His analysis of human behaviour and the collective impact on the society is excellent. The comparison between a surgeon & a well cultured person (susamskrutha) is quite interesting to note. Samskruthi is inherent, inborn, takes time to mature & reflects in every sphere of life. DVG explains this concept beautifully through an analogy of a plant. One of the profound statements is about the impact of fine / performing arts like music, dance, yakshagana etc on developing & influencing the wider cultural fabric & refining the mindset of society. Brilliant analysis.
DVG quotes from Ralph Waldo Emerson & Valmiki Ramayana to explain the depth of the subject, while providing more food for thought. The examples from our puranas and itihasas quoted by DVG is an absolute gem and definitely must read, specially the section on Seetha. The differentiation between Prakriti & Samskruthi is brought out eloquently through examples from daily life. The importance of Dharma in one’s life & the role played by the same in shaping one’s personality & outlook is explained through multiple anecdotes across Srimad Bhagwad Gita, Mahabharatha, Upanishads etc. The concluding portions provide a lot of data points for one to ponder upon & perhaps opens a dialogue with the self, on self-improvement & the vast gaps to be bridged.
The raw materials provided by Nature (Prakriti) is available to all animals, but humans alone can observe & refine them into something much more utilitarian & beautiful (samskruthi). This is highlighted in lucid detail by DVG in his talk in Akshavani. The importance of performing one’s own duties within the framework assigned to a role is critical in having a well cultured society, which is explained by DVG through some interesting anecdotes. The role of samskruthi is to identify the correct position for every aspect in life.
In summary, a MASTERPIECE of a book, perhaps the best self-improvement book one can read. EVERY WORD is worth its WEIGHT in GOLD. Do read, if not already done so.
August 23, 2018
Oh what a lovely book! Pure nectar by DVG. We may never ever again get such writers in kannada.
December 8, 2017
ಸOಸ್ಕೃತಿಯು ಛಲ ಒರಟಾಟಗಳ ಸುಳಿವಿಲ್ಲದ ದಾರಿ. ವಿನಯ ಮರ್ಯದೆಗಳ ದಾರಿ. ವಿನಯ ಮರ್ಯದೆಗಳಿಲ್ಲದ ಬಾಳಿಗೂ ಎಂಜಲೆಲೆಗಾಗಿ ನುಗ್ಗುವ ನಾಯಿ ಬಾಳು ಒಂದೇ
November 26, 2018
Perfect handbook for people with basic question like "What is culture" and what is it all about.
October 30, 2021
Excellent book. It gives a comprehensive idea and understanding of what is called as 'Samskruti' in Bharatiya languages and vaguely translated to Culture in English.
The typical, inimitable writing style of DVG, his vocabulary, similes, all his figures of speech, anecdotes, references are always of holding, interesting and unique. His idioms, parlance, choice of words, phraseology and language are always attractive, they make you read it very fluently, easily and enjoyably.
Some chapters require deep understanding, I would suggest you to read it twice or thrice.
A must read book for all those who are in the field of social work, public affairs, leadership in whatever the field of life.
It is in Kannada.
The typical, inimitable writing style of DVG, his vocabulary, similes, all his figures of speech, anecdotes, references are always of holding, interesting and unique. His idioms, parlance, choice of words, phraseology and language are always attractive, they make you read it very fluently, easily and enjoyably.
Some chapters require deep understanding, I would suggest you to read it twice or thrice.
A must read book for all those who are in the field of social work, public affairs, leadership in whatever the field of life.
It is in Kannada.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews