S L Bhyrappa, the Kannada novelist, is regarded as one of India?s foremost writers. His works are unique in terms of theme, structure and characterisation. Bhyrappa participated in the freedom struggle, but believes that Indian Independence was just a political freedom and that real Independence is the intellectual freedom which is nurtured by the strong foundations laid in the teachings of rich Indian culture and values. Bhyrappa has been honoured with many awards including the ?Saraswathi Samman? for Mandra. His novels have been translated into almost all Indian languages. He retired as a Professor of Philosophy from Mysore University and lives in Mysore.L V Shanthakumari is a life-member of ?Akhila Karnataka Lekakhiyara Sangha?. Her poems, articles and critical essays are published in Kannada and English magazines and journals. She has translated award winning books to and from Kannada including Bhyrappa?s Mandra (published by Niyogi Books) and Bhitti along with Dr S Ramaswamy. She has authored Yugasaakshi, a critical study on S L Bhyrappa?s novels. --This text refers to the hardcover edition.