A Historical Perspective
The Karnataka Historical Research Society was founded more than a century ago in Dharwad — long a centre of learning in Karnataka — to turn the tools of research toward a patriotic purpose: to recover, record and celebrate the history, heritage and culture of the land.
The Society arose, in part, as a considered response to colonial-era claims that Karnataka had no notable history and that great dynasties such as the Chalukyas and the Rashtrakutas were not of Kannada soil. Drawing on the work of scholars such as John Faithfull Fleet (1847–1917) and Robert Sewell (1845–1920), and on generations of Kannada and Marathi writers, the Society's seminars and publications from 1914 onward strengthened the foundations of regional history and kindled public pride in it. Many whom the Society inspired went on to help build the nation itself.
Objectives & Mandates
- To undertake research in history, philosophy, art and culture; in Vedic and trans-Vedic literature; in languages and linguistic processes; and in socio-economic, environmental and natural-resource questions.
- To publish research and study reports periodically.
- To organise training and capacity-building events that support the implementation of programmes.
- To prepare materials and engage the public through talks, discourses and media.
- To observe state and national days and to hold seminars, workshops and focus-group discussions.
- To collaborate with peer bodies and with government and non-government agencies at the state and national levels.
- To undertake any other activity consistent with the Society's overall mandate.
Mission
To build a network and an ecosystem that nurtures research into the socio-economic, environmental and historical life of society, in support of inclusive growth and development.
Vision
A network of progressive knowledge systems that respects cultural diversity and works toward a sustainable future.