Lalitha Kala Academy awards conferred on three artistes

Since only 3-4 women have got the award so far, academy must consider women while selecting artistes for honours

Veteran artiste M B Patila gave away the awards in a colourful ceremony. “The artist who speaks through his works becomes immortal. Hence, art is the greatest asset than any others,” he said.

“As opportunities have increased, an artiste need not struggle for his livelihood now. They can be independent . Those who come to the art field are fortunate. It was not like this during our times,” Patila said.

Academy should seriously consider women while selecting artistes for the honours. Only 3-4 women have got Lalita Kala Academy awards so far. The academy should envisage special programmes to encourage women, he advised.

All district administrations should help poor artists by encouraging handicrafts. Proper market should be provided to their products, he suggested.

The Academy Chairman Dr J S Khanderao expressed his concern that the art which was the expression of one’s inner feelings, has now been on a competitive race.

Deputy Commissioner R Narayanaswamy expressed gratitude to the academy president for organising the award ceremony in Chikmagalur. L Shivalingappa spoke on behalf of the awardees. Academy members Eshwarappa Kundagola, Jagadish Kadur and Registrar Mallikarjuna Swamy were present.