Kozhikode: K Madhavan, Strategic Advisor to Disney India and a leading figure in the Indian media industry, has been conferred with the prestigious PV Sami Memorial Industrial and Socio-cultural Award. The award was presented by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan during a ceremony held at the Sree Narayana Centenary Hall in Kozhikode on Tuesday.

The event was chaired by PV Chandran, Chairman and Managing Editor of Mathrubhumi, who also heads the PV Sami Memorial Trust.

Reflecting on the legacy of PV Sami, the Chief Minister said, “Though he passed away 35 years ago, the impact of PV Sami’s contributions remains undiminished. His rise from Kozhikode to the heights of industrial success serves as a textbook example for today’s generation. Kerala Transport Company (KTC), which he built through sheer determination, laid the foundation for what we now recognise as the logistics sector. Choosing K Madhavan as this year’s awardee is a fitting decision. His complete dedication to every responsibility he takes on is his greatest strength.”

Vijayan further remarked that Madhavan’s journey from banking into becoming a recognised leader in the media industry was testament to his vision and capability. “His growth reflects how a Malayali entrepreneur can earn global recognition,” he added.

He also noted that Kerala had undergone an unprecedented transformation in the past decade. “Many believed Kerala could never become an investment-friendly state, but we proved otherwise. Through legislative, regulatory, and attitudinal reforms, we improved ease of doing business. With administrative continuity, we built on these changes. Today, Kerala ranks first in ease of doing business, and investment meets like the one in Kochi have brought in over ₹2 lakh crore worth of proposals.”

Accepting the award, K Madhavan expressed his gratitude and said, “I thank the jury for selecting me. Those who step outside their comfort zones find new opportunities in the world. That’s what I did – I stepped out, and it was an adventure.”

ET Mohammed Basheer MP presented the citation to the awardee, while MK Raghavan MP draped a ceremonial shawl. Floral honours were offered by Shenuga and Shegna, daughters of the late PV Gangadharan.

Notable figures including MPs John Brittas and K Muraleedharan, Kozhikode Mayor Beena Philip, BJP General Secretary MT Ramesh, and Gokulam Gopalan also extended their congratulations.

The welcome address was delivered by PV Nidhish, Trustee of the PV Sami Memorial Trust and Joint Managing Editor of Mathrubhumi. Dr Jaikish Jayaraj, Managing Director of PVS Sunrise Hospital, delivered the vote of thanks.

The award commemorates PV Sami, a freedom fighter and renowned industrialist who left a lasting imprint in Kerala’s politics, society, culture, and education. The recipient was selected by a jury chaired by Mathrubhumi Managing Director MV Shreyams Kumar, with jury members including Dr CK Ramachandran and filmmaker Sathyan Anthikad. Shreyams Kumar also provided insights into the award during the event.