Introduction:
The father of Kannada literature is a title given to the person who is considered the pioneer and originator of the Kannada language. This individual played a crucial role in the development and growth of Kannada as a distinct language and literary tradition. Among the given options, the correct answer is option 'A', Pampa.

Explanation:
Pampa:
- Pampa, also known as Pampa Deva or Adikavi Pampa, is widely regarded as the father of Kannada literature.
- He was a renowned poet and writer who lived in the 10th century during the reign of the Western Chalukya dynasty.
- Pampa's most famous work is the epic poem "Vikramarjuna Vijaya" (also known as "Pampa Bharata" or "Pampa Ramayana").
- This poem is considered the earliest available epic in the Kannada language and is based on the story of the Hindu deity Rama.
- Pampa's literary contributions were significant in shaping the Kannada language and establishing it as a literary medium.

Other Options:
Ponna:
- Ponna was a prominent Kannada poet who lived during the 10th century.
- He is known for his epic poem "Shantipurana" and "Jainapurana," which are considered masterpieces in Kannada literature.
- While Ponna made notable contributions to Kannada literature, he is not referred to as the father of Kannada.

Ranna:
- Ranna was a well-known Kannada poet who lived during the 10th century.
- He is famous for his epic poem "Sahasa Bhima Vijaya," which narrates the adventures of the mythological hero Bhima.
- Ranna's works are highly regarded in Kannada literature, but he is not considered the father of Kannada.

Harishvara:
- Harishvara was a poet who lived during the 12th century.
- He composed the "Gadayuddha," an epic poem based on the Mahabharata.
- Harishvara's contributions to Kannada literature are significant, but he is not recognized as the father of Kannada.

Conclusion:
Among the given options, Pampa is known as the father of Kannada literature. His contributions to Kannada language and literature, particularly through his epic poem "Vikramarjuna Vijaya," are highly esteemed. Pampa's work played a crucial role in the development and promotion of Kannada as a distinct language and literary tradition.