Kalpetta (Kerala): Shashi Tharoor MP presented the Padmaprabha Memorial Literary Award to distinguished writer R Rajasree at a function held at Krishnagowder Hall in Puliyarmala. The award commemorates M K Padmaprabha Gowder, regarded as one of the key architects of modern Wayanad.

The award presentation was witnessed by prominent figures from political, artistic and cultural spheres alongside members of the public. M V Shreyams Kumar, Chairman of the Padmaprabha Memorial Trust, presided over the event. Mathrubhumi Director M K Jinachandran honoured awardee R Rajasree with a ceremonial ‘ponnada’ (traditional shawl).

Alankode Leelakrishnan delivered the Padmaprabha Memorial Lecture. Key felicitations were offered by Mathrubhumi Chairman and Managing Editor P V Chandran, renowned writers S Sithara and O K Johny, Reception Committee Chairman P K Sudheer and General Convener Dr K T Ashraf.

M K Padmaprabha Gowder rendered invaluable contributions to the political, cultural and educational spheres of Wayanad as both a public representative and a committed socialist. Institute by the Padmaprabha Charitable Trust in 1996, the annual award comprises a cash prize of Rs 75,000 and a memento studded with a padmaraga (ruby).