Usha, is recognized as a writer in Kannada all over Karnataka. She has published 25 books – 7 novels, 3 collections of short stories, 6 collections of poems (two in tulu) 4 collections of essays, 3 life histories, 1 travelogue, and an Autobiography. Besides she edited nearly 10 books. She has bagged many literary awards which includes Padmabhooshana Sarojadevi literary award from Karnataka Sahithya Parishat 2003; Dr Anupama Niranjana award for total contribution to Kannada literature from Karnataka Lekhakiyara Sangha in 2018; Abbakka award in 2020; Karnataka Sahithya Academy honorary award for the total contribution to Kannada literature in 2020.

She started painting at the age of 60 after finishing all her major responsibilities of life, under the guidance of a friend, well-wisher and an established artist Smt. Nimi Ravindranath, thinking that at least then she can pursue what was always near to her heart. But, as soon as she started painting she met with a near fatal road accident in the middle of 2005. She was confined to bed for nearly six months with multiple fractures. She was at the verge of going to depression. At that time her two sons persuaded her to start painting again as a therapy to overcome the mental and physical trauma and it worked wonders to her. Since 2006 painting has become her passion.

She started with oil colours and produced nearly 60-70 art works in two years. She conducted her 1st solo exhibition at Chithrakala Parishat in December 2007. That was her victory over the tragic incident. After that she did not look back. She started exploring other mediums. Now she is painting with acrylics and water colours also. She is one of the first few artists who tried their hand in pouring art. She was 70 at that time! youtube videos were her teachers. At 72 she started learning Zentangle designs and now she is creating beautiful mandalas and many more zentangle designs. Here also youtube videos guided her as teachers.