For the 1980s' kids who tasted TV time with 'Malgudi Days', Girish Karnads portrayal as Swamis stern father, has remained an indelible memory. Equally unfading for many generations are his plays with historical and mythical elements, films reflecting the country's social sentiment, and political activism -- all of which reflected a fearlessness and candour so rare in Indian showbiz.

"A man must commit a crime at least once in his lifetime. Only then will his virtue be recognised," Karnad has been famously quoted by his fans as well as his detractors.