Pics: Ahammed Bava
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru, Feb 10: The Sandesha Foundation for Culture and Education hosted the prestigious Sandesha Awards 2025 ceremony on Monday, February 10, at the Sandesha grounds in Nanthoor, Mangaluru.
The awards honored 10 distinguished individuals for their exemplary contributions in various fields.
Sandesha Awards 2025 recipients:
- Sandesha Literature Award (Kannada): B R Laxman Rao
- Sandesha Literature Award (Konkani): Irene Pinto
- Sandesha Literature Award (Tulu): Ganesh Amin Sankamar
- Sandesha Esteem Award: Michael D’Souza
- Sandesha Media Award: D V Rajashekar
- Sandesha Konkani Music Award: Roshan D’Souza
- Sandesha Art Award: Girish Kasaravalli
- Sandesha Education Award: Dr Yenepoya Abdulla Kunhi
- Sandesha Special Recognition Award: K V Rao
- Sandesha Talent Award: Remona Evette Pereira
Sandesha Special Honorary Awards 2025:
- Sandesha Esteem Award: Michael D’Souza (for humanitarian service and philanthropy)
- Sandesha Talent Award: Remona Evette Pereira (for outstanding talent in Bharatanatyam)
The ceremony began with a floral tribute to Dr Na D Souza, followed by a speech from Girish Kasaravalli, who reflected on the late writer’s contributions.
B R Laxman Rao, speaking on behalf of the awardees, expressed gratitude, saying, "The Sandesha Award is particularly special as it upholds the values of social harmony, value-based education, and social service. It is a proud moment to receive this honor alongside esteemed personalities such as Girish Kasaravalli, with the award being presented by T S Nagabharana."
Renowned filmmaker T S Nagabharana remarked, "The Sandesha Award sends a strong message of social harmony. Art is a universal language that unites people and is embraced by all."
The event was attended by bishop Francis Serrao of Shivamogga, bishop Lawrence Mukkuzhy of Beltangady, Sandesha director Fr Sudeep Paul, and Sandesha Foundation trustee Roy Castelino, who proposed the vote of thanks. The event was compered by Irene Rebello.
The Sandesha Awards Jury was chaired by Dr Damodar Shetty, with trustees Fr Ivan Pinto, and committee members Concepta Fernandes, Roopakala Alva, and B A Mohammed Haneef among others.