Karnataka Janapada Academy Honors Police Inspector and Dancer for Folk Art Excellence
The Karnataka Janapada Academy has conferred its prestigious honorary awards on two distinguished individuals from the district, celebrating their lifelong dedication to folk arts. Police inspector Jyotirling C Honakatti of Hubballi received the honor in the folk singing category, while Prakash Malligwad was recognized for his contributions to folk dance.
Jyotirling Honakatti: A Police Officer with a Musical Soul
Jyotirling Honakatti, who currently serves as a police inspector at the Hubballi-Dharwad women's police station, masterfully balances his law enforcement duties with a deep passion for folk music. Hailing from a small village in Indi taluk of Vijayapur district, Honakatti credits his father, Chandram Honakatti, as the primary inspiration behind his artistic journey.
His father, a primary school teacher and artist who performed Krishna Parijata Jata, instilled in him a love for folklore from a young age. Honakatti pursued formal education with a BSc and MA, and later received an honorary doctorate from a Folk university, solidifying his academic and artistic credentials.
Beyond singing, Honakatti has authored six books on folk songs, including Janapada Butti, and is recognized as a B-High category artiste of All India Radio. He has participated in numerous television programs, received the Kanaka Award, and delivered approximately 200 lectures on folk subjects, sharing his knowledge widely.
With 23 years of service in the police department, Honakatti expressed that singing brings him peace and pride, inspired by his father's legacy. "Singing feels peaceful to me. Inspired by my father, I started singing and feel proud," he told TOI.
Prakash Malligwad: Four Decades of Folk Dance Innovation
Prakash Malligwad, from Dharwad, has dedicated over four decades to advancing folk dance, blending traditional steps with innovative imagery set to folk songs that reflect the nation's rich heritage. His performances have graced major festivals across India, including:
- Mysuru Dasara
- Vishwa Kannada Sammelana
- Tribal Festival organized by the Tamil Nadu government
- Horanadu Kannadigara Sammelana in Maharashtra and Bihar
- Kannada Mahamela in Goa
Malligwad founded his own troupe, Rising Stars, through which he conducts programs and created awareness during the Covid-19 pandemic. He emphasized that this award imposes greater responsibility to educate the youth about folk arts, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
"The young generation would know the folk art and save it. Therefore, this award gave more responsibilities to make the youth aware of folk dances. We would encourage the new generation and increase involvement in folk arts," Malligwad stated.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage Through Awards
The Karnataka Janapada Academy's recognition of Honakatti and Malligwad underscores the vital role of individuals in safeguarding and promoting folk traditions. Their achievements highlight how personal passion, combined with professional dedication, can enrich cultural landscapes and inspire communities.
These awards not only honor their past contributions but also empower them to continue their work, fostering greater appreciation and participation in folk arts among younger demographics, thereby ensuring the longevity of India's diverse cultural expressions.
