Kannada Rajyotsava awards: CM Siddaramaiah says final list was made by the selection committee

Siddaramaiah explained that 70 achievers were chosen to mark the 70th anniversary of the formation of Karnataka. The primary goal, he said, was to identify and select only experts in their respective fields, irrespective of who had applied.

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday asserted that he had not recommended any individual for the annual Kannada Rajyotsava Awards, clarifying that the final selection of the 70 achievers was entirely the decision of the designated committee.

Speaking after inaugurating the 70th Karnataka Rajyotsava event in Bengaluru on Saturday, organised by the Kannada and Culture Department at Ravindra Kalakshetra, the Chief Minister highlighted the independence of the selection process. "As the Chief Minister of the state, I have not recommended anyone's name for the award. The final selection was made by the selection committee, and their decision is final," Siddaramaiah stated.

He explained that 70 achievers were chosen to mark the 70th anniversary of the formation of Karnataka. The primary goal, he said, was to identify and select only experts in their respective fields, irrespective of who had applied. He noted that the committee ensured regional and social justice was observed, particularly when multiple deserving names surfaced within the same category.

The Chief Minister also expressed appreciation for the media, noting that "the media did not dispute anyone's selection," which he took as confirmation that only the most deserving individuals had received the honours. He paid a special tribute to awardee Konandur Lingappa, recalling their shared history in the socialist struggle.

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, also addressing the gathering, expressed profound pride in the opportunity to felicitate the awardees. Quoting Purandara Dasa, he said, "It is my fortune (Bhagya) to facilitate all of you today."

Shivakumar highlighted the modest backgrounds of many recipients. "Many people among the awardees haven’t seen Bengaluru itself, but they have achieved and contributed to the state," he remarked, calling their lives an inspiration to all. He stressed the ephemeral nature of material wealth, stating, "Richest and wealth are all temporary. Your achievements will be permanent."

The Deputy CM also recalled Konandur Lingappa, mentioning his political prowess alongside Bangarappa and Kagodu Thimmappa, stating that "the Assembly used to shake at their mere presence."

CM Siddaramaiah, DyCM DK Shivakumar, Minister Shivaraj Thangadgi, Kannada and Culture Department Secretary Venkatesh, and Director Gayathri were present at the event, which saw 70 achievers felicitated with the Rajyotsava Awards.