The Karnataka government has unveiled the prestigious list of 68 recipients for this year's Rajyotsava Awards, the state's second-highest civilian honor, in a celebration of excellence and contribution to Kannada culture and society.
Diverse Fields, Distinguished Honorees
This year's awardees represent a remarkable spectrum of achievements across 30 different categories. The list includes 58 individuals from various professional backgrounds alongside 10 organizations that have made significant impacts in their respective fields.
Notable Personalities Among Awardees
Several prominent figures have been recognized for their exceptional work. Renowned actor Dattanna (Dattatreya) receives honors for his contributions to Kannada cinema, while acclaimed director Raj B Shetty is celebrated for his innovative filmmaking.
In the literary world, distinguished writers Bolwar Mahamad Kunta and Mohan Bhandari are being honored for their significant contributions to Kannada literature.
Special Recognition Across Sectors
The awards extend beyond arts and entertainment to recognize excellence in various domains:
- Medicine & Healthcare: Dr. C K Nagesh and Dr. Rajashekar H Malligavad
- Social Service: Vidya K and other activists
- Education: Several educators and institutions
- Journalism: Media professionals including photographers
- Sports: Athletes and sports promoters
Award Details and Ceremony
Each awardee will receive a 20-gram gold medal, a citation, and a cash prize of ₹1 lakh. The official award ceremony is scheduled for November 1st, coinciding with Karnataka Formation Day, at the prestigious Ravindra Kalakshetra in Bengaluru.
Selection Process and Criteria
The final selection was made by an expert committee chaired by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The committee reviewed numerous nominations, focusing on individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional dedication to promoting Kannada language, culture, and the overall development of Karnataka society.
The Rajyotsava Awards continue to serve as a powerful platform to recognize and encourage the preservation and promotion of Karnataka's rich cultural heritage while celebrating contemporary achievements across diverse fields.
