From writers to promoters of traditional dance and music, and a politician known more for his contribution to the socialist movement in Karnataka, are among the recipients of Rajyotsava awards in the Mysuru region and Malnad.Rajendra Chenni Chenni, a retired English professor of Kuvempu University, has made significant contributions to various fields, including literature, criticism, and environmental activism. Born on Oct 21, 1955, in Alnavar in Belagavi district, Chenni has authored 12 books in Kannada and four in English and received several honours, including the Karnataka State Sahitya Akademi Lifetime Achievement Award (2012) and the GSS Award (2009). Some of his notable works include ‘Masti: A Study,’ ‘Desivada,’ and ‘Karulaballiya Solla.’ Chenni actively participated in several people’s movements in Karnataka, including protests against mining at Kudremukha and efforts to save the Tunga River. Chenni’s work highlights the challenges Kannada faces in the era of globalisation and rapidly advancing technology. Konanduru LingappaKonanduru Lingappa, a veteran politician from Shivamogga district, is known for his simplicity and commitment to social causes. Born in 1934, Lingappa was actively involved in the Samajwadi movement (socialist movement) in Karnataka, particularly in the Malnad region, and worked tirelessly for the welfare of the poor and marginalised. Lingappa was elected as an MLA for the first time in 1972 mainly because of his active participation in the socialist movement led by renowned socialist Shantaveri Gopala Gowda. Lingappa participated in the Kagodu movement to provide land rights in the early 60s, which also brought him closer to people.Mime Ramesh Mime Ramesh, a distinguished theatre practitioner from Mangaluru, entered performing arts after being inspired by Yakshagana from a young age. He joined Samudaya, a theatre troupe, in 1975, actively participating in socially impactful street plays across Karnataka. In 1979, he refined his Yakshagana skills under Kadri Vishnu and also trained in Bharathanatyam, expanding his artistic range. His professional journey took a major turn when he became an artist at Rangayana, Mysuru, in 1989. For nearly five decades, he remained a force in theatre, contributing as an actor, director, choreographer, and mentor. He founded the GPIER troupe in Mysuru and trained hundreds of budding artists. His work in Tulu theatre also gained wide appreciation. A master of mime, Ramesh collaborated with legendary directors, including BV Karanth and MS Sathyu. His contributions earned him several accolades, including the Karnataka Nataka Academy Award and CGK Ranga Puraskara. “This award brings great responsibility and inspires me to do even more. There is still a lot of work to be done in this field,” said Mime Ramesh.Takappa KannuruTakappa Kannuru, a celebrated Dollu Kunita artiste from Sagar taluk in Shivamogga district, took the traditional art form to international platforms, performing in England, America, Bhutan, Nepal, Russia, and China. He has also performed at the World Kannada Conference and Commonwealth Games. Born in Kannuru, a Malnad village, he taught folk dance Dollu Kunita to thousands of youngsters. He said he was thrilled to get recognition for his services to promote traditional music and dance.Rahamath TarikereNoted writer Rahamath Tarikere, who hails from Tarikere in Chikkamagaluru district, began his career as a Kannada lecturer at the legendary Sahyadri College in Shivamogga in 1983 and went on to become a professor at Kannada University in Hampi in 1992. Litterateur and Jnanpith award winner Chandrashekhar Kambar, who served as the VC of Kannada University, invited him to serve the varsity for the promotion of the Kannada language. Rahamath served as head of the Kannada literature studies department and as dean of the language faculty. His critical works include ‘Pratisamskriti’, ‘Maradolagina Kicchu’, ‘Samskriti Chintane’, ‘Kattiyanchina Daari’, ‘Chintaneya Paadu’, ‘Karnatakada Sufis’, and ‘Karnatakada Nathapantha.’ His research works include ‘Maatu Tale Ettuva Bage’ and ‘Illi Yaaru Mukhyaralla.’M YogendraNoted long-distance and cross-country runner M Yogendra from Mysuru has been recognised for his remarkable achievements in athletics and his dedication to promoting sports. Identified for his talent from his school days, Yogendra steadily rose to national and international platforms. A dedicated sportsman and a committed mentor, he spent decades supporting and nurturing young athletes. Yogendra also served as an officer in the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) until his retirement. He played key roles in sports administration, including founder secretary and current secretary of Mysore Athletics Club, vice-president of District Masters Athletics Association, and vice-president of Masters Athletics Association of Karnataka. Yogendra represented India in major international competitions in more than 10 countries, including Malaysia, the USA, Taiwan, Brazil, and Japan. Expressing gratitude, Yogendra said the honour motivates him to continue contributing to athletics.Dr Puttichanda Babina NandaDr Puttichanda Babina Nanda, chief medical officer of Jindal Nature Cure Institute, Bengaluru, has been recognised for her services in the field of health. A native of Bollarimadu in Kodagu district, Dr Babina is the daughter of Nellamakkada Muthappa and Saroja.(With inputs from R Uday Kumar in Mysuru, Ranjith Kandya in Chikkamagaluru, Udaya Sagar in Shivamogga, and G Rajendra in Madikeri)
